Multi-level magnetic system

ABSTRACT

A multilevel magnetic system described herein includes first and second magnetic structures that produce a net force that transitions from an attract force to a repel force as a separation distance between the first and second magnetic structures increases. The multi-level magnetic system is configured to maintain a minimum separation distance between a transition distance where the net force is zero and a separation distance at which a peak repel force is produced.

CLAIMING BENEFIT OF PRIOR FILED U.S. APPLICATIONS

This patent application is a continuation application of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/465,001, filed May 6, 2012, now pending, whichwas a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/179,759, filedJul. 11, 2011, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,174,347, which claimed the benefit ofU.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/399,448 (filed Jul. 12, 2010)and was a continuation-in-part of U.S. Nonprovisional patent applicationSer. No. 12/885,450 (filed Sep. 18, 2010), now U.S. Pat. No. 7,982,568.The contents of these documents are hereby incorporated by referenceherein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to a multilevel correlatedmagnetic system and method for using the multilevel correlated magneticsystem. A wide-range of devices including a retractable magnet assembly,a disengagement/engagement tool, and a click on-click off device aredescribed herein that may incorporate or interact with one or more ofthe multilevel correlated magnetic systems.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, the present invention provides a multilevel correlatedmagnetic system, comprising: (a) a first correlated magnetic structureincluding a first portion which has a plurality of coded magneticsources and a second portion which has one or more magnetic sources; (b)a second correlated magnetic structure including a first portion whichhas a plurality of complementary coded magnetic sources and a secondportion which has one or more magnetic sources; (c) the first correlatedmagnetic structure is aligned with the second correlated magneticstructure such that the first portions and the second portions arerespectively located across from one another; and (d) a tool thatapplies a bias magnet field to cause a transition of the first andsecond magnetic structures from a closed state in which the first andsecond magnetic structures are attached to an open state in which thefirst and second magnetic structures are separated.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a magnet assemblycomprising: (a) a containment vessel; and (b) a first magnet locatedwithin the containment vessel, wherein the first magnet moves from aretracted position to an engagement position and vice versa, and whereinwhen the first magnet is in the retracted position there is a limitedmagnetic field present at a measurement location located at an oppositeend of the containment vessel.

In yet another aspect, the present invention provides a stackedmulti-level structure configured to produce a click on-click offbehavior. The stacked multi-level structure comprising: (a) a firstrepel-snap multilevel structure comprising: (i) a first correlatedmagnetic structure including a first portion which has a plurality ofcoded magnetic sources and a second portion which has one or moremagnetic sources; (ii) a second correlated magnetic structure includinga first portion which has a plurality of complementary coded magneticsources and a second portion which has one or more magnetic sources; and(iii) the first correlated magnetic structure is aligned with the secondcorrelated magnetic structure such that the first portions and thesecond portions are respectively located across from one another; (b) asecond repel-snap multilevel structure comprising: (i) the secondcorrelated magnetic structure; and (ii) a third correlated magneticstructure including a first portion which has a plurality ofcomplementary coded magnetic sources and a second portion which has oneor more magnetic sources; (iii) the second correlated magnetic structureis aligned with the third correlated magnetic structure such that thefirst portions and the second portions are respectively located acrossfrom one another.

In still yet another aspect, the present invention provides a stackedmulti-level structure configured to produce a click on-click offbehavior. The stacked multi-level structure comprising: (a) a firstrepel-snap multilevel structure comprising: (i) a first correlatedmagnetic structure including a first portion which has a plurality ofcoded magnetic sources and a second portion which has one or moremagnetic sources; (ii) a second correlated magnetic structure includinga first portion which has a plurality of complementary coded magneticsources and a second portion which has one or more magnetic sources; and(iii) the first correlated magnetic structure is aligned with the secondcorrelated magnetic structure such that the first portions and thesecond portions are respectively located across from one another; (b) asecond repel-snap multilevel structure comprising: (i) a thirdcorrelated magnetic structure including a first portion which has aplurality of coded magnetic sources and a second portion which has oneor more magnetic sources; (ii) a fourth correlated magnetic structureincluding a first portion which has a plurality of complementary codedmagnetic sources and a second portion which has one or more magneticsources; and (iii) the third correlated magnetic structure is alignedwith the fourth correlated magnetic structure such that the firstportions and the second portions are respectively located across fromone another; and (c) an intermediate layer located between the secondcorrelated magnetic structure and the third correlated magneticstructure.

Additional aspects of the invention will be set forth, in part, in thedetailed description, figures and any claims which follow, and in partwill be derived from the detailed description, or can be learned bypractice of the invention. It is to be understood that both theforegoing general description and the following detailed description areexemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the inventionas disclosed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A more complete understanding of the present invention may be obtainedby reference to the following detailed description when taken inconjunction with the accompanying drawings wherein:

FIGS. 1-9 are various diagrams used to help explain different conceptsabout correlated magnetic technology which can be utilized in differentembodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 10 depicts a multilevel correlated magnetic system in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11 depicts a multilevel transition distance determination plot;

FIG. 12 depicts a multilevel correlated magnetic system in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13A depicts a multilevel correlated magnetic system in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 13B and 13C depict alternative correlated magnetic structures inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 14A and 14B depict use of multiple multilevel structures toachieve contactless attachment of two objects in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 15A depicts a momentary snap switch in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 15B depicts the transition distance determination plot for the snapswitch of FIG. 15A;

FIG. 15C depicts the force law curve of the snap switch of FIG. 15A;

FIG. 15D depicts the hysteresis of the magnetic forces of the momentarysnap switch of FIG. 15A in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 16 is a diagram that depicts the force vs. position relationshipbetween the spring and the two magnets making up the snap correlatedmagnetic structure of the momentary snap switch of FIG. 15A;

FIG. 17A depicts the external force position versus the magnet positionof the snap switch as an external force is applied to the snap switch ofFIG. 15A and then released;

FIG. 17B depicts the magnet force as an external force is applied to thesnap switch of FIG. 15A and then released;

FIG. 17C depicts the magnet position versus external force position asan external force is applied to the snap switch of FIG. 15A and thenreleased;

FIGS. 18A-18F depict alternative arrangements for multi-level systems inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 19A depicts an alternative momentary switch where the spring ofFIG. 15A is replaced by a magnet configured to produce a repel force inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 19B depict an alternative momentary switch where the spring of FIG.15A is replaced by a magnet configured to be half of a contactlessattachment multi-level system in accordance with an embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 19C depicts two magnets and an optional spacer that could be usedin place of the middle magnet shown in FIGS. 19A and 19B in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 20A depicts the force vs. position relationship between the outermagnet and the two magnets of the snap multi-level system in themomentary snap switch of FIG. 19A;

FIG. 20B depicts the force vs. position relationship between the outermagnet and the two magnets of the snap multi-level system in themomentary snap switch of FIG. 19B;

FIG. 21A depicts a push button and a first magnet of an exemplarymomentary switch in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 21B depicts a second magnet having an associated electrical contactof an exemplary momentary switch in accordance with an embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 21C depicts a third magnet and a base of an exemplary momentaryswitch in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 21D depicts an exemplary cylinder having an upper lip, a top hole,and a bottom hole configured to receive the push button and first magnetof FIG. 12A, the second magnet and contact of FIG. 21B, and the thirdmagnet and base of FIG. 21C in accordance with an embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 21E depicts an assembled exemplary momentary switch in its normalopen state with a spacer and contact positioned in the slot and on topof the third magnet in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 21F depicts the assembled exemplary momentary switch of FIG. 21E inits closed state in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 22A depicts the female component of a first exemplary magneticcushioning device in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 22B depicts the male component of the first exemplary magneticcushioning device in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 22C depicts the assembled first exemplary magnetic cushioningdevice in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 23A depicts the female component of a second exemplary magneticcushioning device in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 23B depicts the male component of the second exemplary magneticcushioning device in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 23C depicts the assembled second exemplary magnetic cushioningdevice in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 24 depicts a first exemplary array of a plurality of the firstexemplary magnetic cushioning devices in accordance with an embodimentof the present invention;

FIG. 25 depicts a second exemplary array of a plurality of the firstexemplary magnetic cushioning devices in accordance with an embodimentof the present invention;

FIG. 26 depicts an exemplary cushion employing another exemplary arrayof the first exemplary magnetic cushioning devices in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 27 depicts a shock absorber that produces electricity whileabsorbing shock using multi-level magnetism in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 28 depicts multiple levels of multi-level magnetic mechanisms inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 29A-29D depict two magnetic structures that are coded to producethree levels of magnetism in accordance with an embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 29E depicts an exemplary force curve for the two magneticstructures of FIGS. 29A-29D;

FIGS. 30A-30C depict a laptop using two magnetic structures like thosedescribed in relation to FIGS. 29A-29D in accordance with an embodimentof the present invention;

FIG. 30D depicts an exemplary mechanism used to turn one magnet to causeit to decorrelate from a second magnet in accordance with an embodimentof the present invention;

FIGS. 31A-31K depict a child-proof/animal-proof device in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 32 depicts a force curve of two conventional magnets in a repelorientation;

FIG. 33 depicts force curves for five different code densities inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 34 depicts a force curve corresponding to multi-level repel andsnap behavior in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 35 depicts a comparison of a conventional repel behavior versus twodifferent multi-level repel and snap force curves in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 36A-36D depict demonstration devices and their associated forcecurves in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 37A-37C depict use of multi-level contactless attachment devicesto produce cabinets that close but do not touch in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 38A-38B depicts a device that can be used to produce explodingtoys and the like and to store energy in accordance with an embodimentof the present invention;

FIG. 39 depicts a complex machine employing a magnetic force componentin accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 40A-40B depict a retractable magnet assembly intended to limitmagnetic field effects at an engagement location when a magnet is in itsretracted state;

FIG. 40C depicts an exemplary method for designing the retractablemagnet assembly of FIGS. 40A-40B;

FIG. 41A depicts magnets having multi-level repel-snap or hover-snapbehavior being used to attach two objects;

FIG. 41B depicts an exemplary disengagement/engagement tool;

FIG. 41C depicts an exemplary electromagnet located in proximity to anattachment apparatus such as depicted in FIG. 41A, where theelectromagnet can be used to change the state of a repel-snap magnetpair or a hover-snap magnet pair;

FIG. 41D depicts an exemplary enclosure whereby a given magnet of arepel-snap magnet pair or a hover-snap magnet pair can move from oneside of the enclosure when ‘snapped’ to the other magnet and can move tothe other side of the enclosure when ‘repelled’ away from the othermagnet;

FIGS. 42A-42B depict alternative stacked multi-level structures intendedto produce a click on-click off behavior; and

FIG. 42C depicts the click on-click off behavior of the stackedmulti-level structure of FIG. 42A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention includes a multilevel correlated magnetic systemand method for using the multilevel correlated magnetic system. Themultilevel correlated magnetic system of the present invention is madepossible, in part, by the use of an emerging, revolutionary technologythat is called correlated magnetics. This revolutionary technologyreferred to herein as correlated magnetics was first fully described andenabled in the co-assigned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/123,718filed on May 20, 2008 and entitled “A Field Emission System and Method”.The contents of this document are hereby incorporated herein byreference. A second generation of a correlated magnetic technology isdescribed and enabled in the co-assigned U.S. patent application Ser.No. 12/358,423 filed on Jan. 23, 2009 and entitled “A Field EmissionSystem and Method”. The contents of this document are herebyincorporated herein by reference. A third generation of a correlatedmagnetic technology is described and enabled in the co-assigned U.S.patent application Ser. No. 12/476,952 filed on Jun. 2, 2009 andentitled “A Field Emission System and Method”. The contents of thisdocument are hereby incorporated herein by reference. Another technologyknown as correlated inductance, which is related to correlatedmagnetics, has been described and enabled in the co-assigned U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 12/322, 561 filed on Feb. 4, 2009 and entitled “ASystem and Method for Producing an Electric Pulse”. The contents of thisdocument are hereby incorporated by reference. A brief discussion aboutcorrelated magnetics is provided first before a detailed discussion isprovided about the multilevel correlated magnetic system and method ofthe present invention.

Correlated Magnetics Technology

This section is provided to introduce the reader to basic magnets andthe new and revolutionary correlated magnetic technology. This sectionincludes subsections relating to basic magnets, correlated magnets, andcorrelated electromagnetics. It should be understood that this sectionis provided to assist the reader with understanding the presentinvention, and should not be used to limit the scope of the presentinvention.

A. Magnets

A magnet is a material or object that produces a magnetic field which isa vector field that has a direction and a magnitude (also calledstrength). Referring to FIG. 1, there is illustrated an exemplary magnet100 which has a South pole 102 and a North pole 104 and magnetic fieldvectors 106 that represent the direction and magnitude of the magnet'smoment. The magnet's moment is a vector that characterizes the overallmagnetic properties of the magnet 100. For a bar magnet, the directionof the magnetic moment points from the South pole 102 to the North pole104. The North and South poles 104 and 102 are also referred to hereinas positive (+) and negative (−) poles, respectively.

Referring to FIG. 2A, there is a diagram that depicts two magnets 100 aand 100 b aligned such that their polarities are opposite in directionresulting in a repelling spatial force 200 which causes the two magnets100 a and 100 b to repel each other. In contrast, FIG. 2B is a diagramthat depicts two magnets 100 a and 100 b aligned such that theirpolarities are in the same direction resulting in an attracting spatialforce 202 which causes the two magnets 100 a and 100 b to attract eachother. In FIG. 2B, the magnets 100 a and 100 b are shown as beingaligned with one another but they can also be partially aligned with oneanother where they could still “stick” to each other and maintain theirpositions relative to each other. FIG. 2C is a diagram that illustrateshow magnets 100 a, 100 b and 100 c will naturally stack on one anothersuch that their poles alternate.

B. Correlated Magnets

Correlated magnets can be created in a wide variety of ways depending onthe particular application as described in the aforementioned U.S.patent application Ser. Nos. 12/123,718, 12/358,432, and 12/476,952 byusing a unique combination of magnet arrays (referred to herein asmagnetic field emission sources), correlation theory (commonlyassociated with probability theory and statistics) and coding theory(commonly associated with communication systems and radar systems). Abrief discussion is provided next to explain how these widely diversetechnologies are used in a unique and novel way to create correlatedmagnets.

Basically, correlated magnets are made from a combination of magnetic(or electric) field emission sources which have been configured inaccordance with a pre-selected code having desirable correlationproperties. Thus, when a magnetic field emission structure is broughtinto alignment with a complementary, or mirror image, magnetic fieldemission structure the various magnetic field emission sources will allalign causing a peak spatial attraction force to be produced, while themisalignment of the magnetic field emission structures cause the variousmagnetic field emission sources to substantially cancel each other outin a manner that is a function of the particular code used to design thetwo magnetic field emission structures. In contrast, when a magneticfield emission structure is brought into alignment with a duplicatemagnetic field emission structure then the various magnetic fieldemission sources all align causing a peak spatial repelling force to beproduced, while the misalignment of the magnetic field emissionstructures causes the various magnetic field emission sources tosubstantially cancel each other out in a manner that is a function ofthe particular code used to design the two magnetic field emissionstructures.

The aforementioned spatial forces (attraction, repelling) have amagnitude that is a function of the relative alignment of two magneticfield emission structures and their corresponding spatial force (orcorrelation) function, the spacing (or distance) between the twomagnetic field emission structures, and the magnetic field strengths andpolarities of the various sources making up the two magnetic fieldemission structures. The spatial force functions can be used to achieveprecision alignment and precision positioning not possible with basicmagnets. Moreover, the spatial force functions can enable the precisecontrol of magnetic fields and associated spatial forces therebyenabling new forms of attachment devices for attaching objects withprecise alignment and new systems and methods for controlling precisionmovement of objects. An additional unique characteristic associated withcorrelated magnets relates to the situation where the various magneticfield sources making-up two magnetic field emission structures caneffectively cancel out each other when they are brought out of alignmentwhich is described herein as a release force. This release force is adirect result of the particular correlation coding used to configure themagnetic field emission structures.

A person skilled in the art of coding theory will recognize that thereare many different types of codes that have different correlationproperties which have been used in communications for channelizationpurposes, energy spreading, modulation, and other purposes. Many of thebasic characteristics of such codes make them applicable for use inproducing the magnetic field emission structures described herein. Forexample, Barker codes are known for their autocorrelation properties andcan be used to help configure correlated magnets. Although, a Barkercode is used in an example below with respect to FIGS. 3A-3B, otherforms of codes which may or may not be well known in the art are alsoapplicable to correlated magnets because of their autocorrelation,cross-correlation, or other properties including, for example, Goldcodes, Kasami sequences, hyperbolic congruential codes, quadraticcongruential codes, linear congruential codes, Welch-Costas array codes,Golomb-Costas array codes, pseudorandom codes, chaotic codes, OptimalGolomb Ruler codes, deterministic codes, designed codes, one dimensionalcodes, two dimensional codes, three dimensional codes, or fourdimensional codes, combinations thereof, and so forth.

Referring to FIG. 3A, there are diagrams used to explain how a Barkerlength 7 code 300 can be used to determine polarities and positions ofmagnets 302 a, 302 b . . . 302 g making up a first magnetic fieldemission structure 304. Each magnet 302 a, 302 b . . . 302 g has thesame or substantially the same magnetic field strength (or amplitude),which for the sake of this example is provided as a unit of 1 (whereA=Attract, R=Repel, A=−R, A=1, R=−1). A second magnetic field emissionstructure 306 (including magnets 308 a, 308 b . . . 308 g) that isidentical to the first magnetic field emission structure 304 is shown in13 different alignments 310-1 through 310-13 relative to the firstmagnetic field emission structure 304. For each relative alignment, thenumber of magnets that repel plus the number of magnets that attract iscalculated, where each alignment has a spatial force in accordance witha spatial force function based upon the correlation function andmagnetic field strengths of the magnets 302 a, 302 b . . . 302 g and 308a, 308 b . . . 308 g. With the specific Barker code used, the spatialforce varies from −1 to 7, where the peak occurs when the two magneticfield emission structures 304 and 306 are aligned which occurs whentheir respective codes are aligned. The off peak spatial force, referredto as a side lobe force, varies from 0 to −1. As such, the spatial forcefunction causes the magnetic field emission structures 304 and 306 togenerally repel each other unless they are aligned such that each oftheir magnets are correlated with a complementary magnet (i.e., amagnet's South pole aligns with another magnet's North pole, or viceversa). In other words, the two magnetic field emission structures 304and 306 substantially correlate with one another when they are alignedto substantially mirror each other.

In FIG. 3B, there is a plot that depicts the spatial force function ofthe two magnetic field emission structures 304 and 306 which resultsfrom the binary autocorrelation function of the Barker length 7 code300, where the values at each alignment position 1 through 13 correspondto the spatial force values that were calculated for the thirteenalignment positions 310-1 through 310-13 between the two magnetic fieldemission structures 304 and 306 depicted in FIG. 3A. As the trueautocorrelation function for correlated magnet field structures isrepulsive, and most of the uses envisioned will have attractivecorrelation peaks, the usage of the term ‘autocorrelation’ herein willrefer to complementary correlation unless otherwise stated. That is, theinteracting faces of two such correlated magnetic field emissionstructures 304 and 306 will be complementary to (i.e., mirror images of)each other. This complementary autocorrelation relationship can be seenin FIG. 3A where the bottom face of the first magnetic field emissionstructure 304 having the pattern ‘S S S N N S N’ is shown interactingwith the top face of the second magnetic field emission structure 306having the pattern ‘N N N S S N S’, which is the mirror image (pattern)of the bottom face of the first magnetic field emission structure 304.

Referring to FIG. 4A, there is a diagram of an array of 19 magnets 400positioned in accordance with an exemplary code to produce an exemplarymagnetic field emission structure 402 and another array of 19 magnets404 which is used to produce a mirror image magnetic field emissionstructure 406. In this example, the exemplary code was intended toproduce the first magnetic field emission structure 402 to have a firststronger lock when aligned with its mirror image magnetic field emissionstructure 406 and a second weaker lock when it is rotated 90° relativeto its mirror image magnetic field emission structure 406. FIG. 4Bdepicts a spatial force function 408 of the magnetic field emissionstructure 402 interacting with its mirror image magnetic field emissionstructure 406 to produce the first stronger lock. As can be seen, thespatial force function 408 has a peak which occurs when the two magneticfield emission structures 402 and 406 are substantially aligned. FIG. 4Cdepicts a spatial force function 410 of the magnetic field emissionstructure 402 interacting with its mirror magnetic field emissionstructure 406 after being rotated 90°. As can be seen, the spatial forcefunction 410 has a smaller peak which occurs when the two magnetic fieldemission structures 402 and 406 are substantially aligned but onestructure is rotated 90°. If the two magnetic field emission structures402 and 406 are in other positions then they could be easily separated.

Referring to FIG. 5, there is a diagram depicting a correlating magnetsurface 502 being wrapped back on itself on a cylinder 504 (or disc 504,wheel 504) and a conveyor belt/tracked structure 506 having locatedthereon a mirror image correlating magnet surface 508. In this case, thecylinder 504 can be turned clockwise or counter-clockwise by some forceso as to roll along the conveyor belt/tracked structure 506. The fixedmagnetic field emission structures 502 and 508 provide a traction andgripping (i.e., holding) force as the cylinder 504 is turned by someother mechanism (e.g., a motor). The gripping force would remainsubstantially constant as the cylinder 504 moved down the conveyorbelt/tracked structure 506 independent of friction or gravity and couldtherefore be used to move an object about a track that moved up a wall,across a ceiling, or in any other desired direction within the limits ofthe gravitational force (as a function of the weight of the object)overcoming the spatial force of the aligning magnetic field emissionstructures 502 and 508. If desired, this cylinder 504 (or other rotarydevices) can also be operated against other rotary correlating surfacesto provide a gear-like operation. Since the hold-down force equals thetraction force, these gears can be loosely connected and still givepositive, non-slipping rotational accuracy. Plus, the magnetic fieldemission structures 502 and 508 can have surfaces which are perfectlysmooth and still provide positive, non-slip traction. In contrast tolegacy friction-based wheels, the traction force provided by themagnetic field emission structures 502 and 508 is largely independent ofthe friction forces between the traction wheel and the traction surfaceand can be employed with low friction surfaces. Devices moving aboutbased on magnetic traction can be operated independently of gravity forexample in weightless conditions including space, underwater, verticalsurfaces and even upside down.

Referring to FIG. 6, there is a diagram depicting an exemplary cylinder602 having wrapped thereon a first magnetic field emission structure 604with a code pattern 606 that is repeated six times around the outside ofthe cylinder 602. Beneath the cylinder 602 is an object 608 having acurved surface with a slightly larger curvature than the cylinder 602and having a second magnetic field emission structure 610 that is alsocoded using the code pattern 606. Assume, the cylinder 602 is turned ata rotational rate of 1 rotation per second by shaft 612. Thus, as thecylinder 602 turns, six times a second the first magnetic field emissionstructure 604 on the cylinder 602 aligns with the second magnetic fieldemission structure 610 on the object 608 causing the object 608 to berepelled (i.e., moved downward) by the peak spatial force function ofthe two magnetic field emission structures 604 and 610. Similarly, hadthe second magnetic field emission structure 610 been coded using a codepattern that mirrored code pattern 606, then 6 times a second the firstmagnetic field emission structure 604 of the cylinder 602 would alignwith the second magnetic field emission structure 610 of the object 608causing the object 608 to be attracted (i.e., moved upward) by the peakspatial force function of the two magnetic field emission structures 604and 610. Thus, the movement of the cylinder 602 and the correspondingfirst magnetic field emission structure 604 can be used to control themovement of the object 608 having its corresponding second magneticfield emission structure 610. One skilled in the art will recognize thatthe cylinder 602 may be connected to a shaft 612 which may be turned asa result of wind turning a windmill, a water wheel or turbine, oceanwave movement, and other methods whereby movement of the object 608 canresult from some source of energy scavenging. As such, correlatedmagnets enables the spatial forces between objects to be preciselycontrolled in accordance with their movement and also enables themovement of objects to be precisely controlled in accordance with suchspatial forces.

In the above examples, the correlated magnets 304, 306, 402, 406, 502,508, 604 and 610 overcome the normal ‘magnet orientation’ behavior withthe aid of a holding mechanism such as an adhesive, a screw, a bolt &nut, etc. . . . . In other cases, magnets of the same magnetic fieldemission structure could be sparsely separated from other magnets (e.g.,in a sparse array) such that the magnetic forces of the individualmagnets do not substantially interact, in which case the polarity ofindividual magnets can be varied in accordance with a code withoutrequiring a holding mechanism to prevent magnetic forces from ‘flipping’a magnet. However, magnets are typically close enough to one anothersuch that their magnetic forces would substantially interact to cause atleast one of them to ‘flip’ so that their moment vectors align but thesemagnets can be made to remain in a desired orientation by use of aholding mechanism such as an adhesive, a screw, a bolt & nut, etc. . . .. As such, correlated magnets often utilize some sort of holdingmechanism to form different magnetic field emission structures which canbe used in a wide-variety of applications like, for example, a drillhead assembly, a hole cutting tool assembly, a machine press tool, agripping apparatus, a slip ring mechanism, and a structural assembly.Moreover, magnetic field emission structures may include a turningmechanism, a tool insertion slot, alignment marks, a latch mechanism, apivot mechanism, a swivel mechanism, or a lever.

C. Correlated Electromagnetics

Correlated magnets can entail the use of electromagnets which is a typeof magnet in which the magnetic field is produced by the flow of anelectric current. The polarity of the magnetic field is determined bythe direction of the electric current and the magnetic field disappearswhen the current ceases. Following are a couple of examples in whicharrays of electromagnets are used to produce a first magnetic fieldemission structure that is moved over time relative to a second magneticfield emission structure which is associated with an object therebycausing the object to move.

Referring to FIG. 7, there are several diagrams used to explain a 2-Dcorrelated electromagnetics example in which there is a table 700 havinga two-dimensional electromagnetic array 702 (first magnetic fieldemission structure 702) beneath its surface and a movement platform 704having at least one table contact member 706. In this example, themovement platform 704 is shown having four table contact members 706each having a magnetic field emission structure 708 (second magneticfield emission structures 708) that would be attracted by theelectromagnetic array 702. Computerized control of the states ofindividual electromagnets of the electromagnet array 702 determineswhether they are on or off and determines their polarity. A firstexample 710 depicts states of the electromagnetic array 702 configuredto cause one of the table contact members 706 to attract to a subset 712a of the electromagnets within the magnetic field emission structure702. A second example 712 depicts different states of theelectromagnetic array 702 configured to cause the one table contactmember 706 to be attracted (i.e., move) to a different subset 712 b ofthe electromagnets within the field emission structure 702. Per the twoexamples, one skilled in the art can recognize that the table contactmember(s) 706 can be moved about table 700 by varying the states of theelectromagnets of the electromagnetic array 702.

Referring to FIG. 8, there are several diagrams used to explain a 3-Dcorrelated electromagnetics example where there is a first cylinder 802which is slightly larger than a second cylinder 804 that is containedinside the first cylinder 802. A magnetic field emission structure 806is placed around the first cylinder 802 (or optionally around the secondcylinder 804). An array of electromagnets (not shown) is associated withthe second cylinder 804 (or optionally the first cylinder 802) and theirstates are controlled to create a moving mirror image magnetic fieldemission structure to which the magnetic field emission structure 806 isattracted so as to cause the first cylinder 802 (or optionally thesecond cylinder 804) to rotate relative to the second cylinder 804 (oroptionally the first cylinder 802). The magnetic field emissionstructures 808, 810, and 812 produced by the electromagnetic array onthe second cylinder 804 at time t=n, t=n+1, and t=n+2, show a patternmirroring that of the magnetic field emission structure 806 around thefirst cylinder 802. The pattern is shown moving downward in time so asto cause the first cylinder 802 to rotate counterclockwise. As such, thespeed and direction of movement of the first cylinder 802 (or the secondcylinder 804) can be controlled via state changes of the electromagnetsmaking up the electromagnetic array. Also depicted in FIG. 8 there is anelectromagnetic array 814 that corresponds to a track that can be placedon a surface such that a moving mirror image magnetic field emissionstructure can be used to move the first cylinder 802 backward or forwardon the track using the same code shift approach shown with magneticfield emission structures 808, 810, and 812 (compare to FIG. 5).

Referring to FIG. 9, there is illustrated an exemplary valve mechanism900 based upon a sphere 902 (having a magnetic field emission structure904 wrapped thereon) which is located in a cylinder 906 (having anelectromagnetic field emission structure 908 located thereon). In thisexample, the electromagnetic field emission structure 908 can be variedto move the sphere 902 upward or downward in the cylinder 906 which hasa first opening 910 with a circumference less than or equal to that ofthe sphere 902 and a second opening 912 having a circumference greaterthan the sphere 902. This configuration is desirable since one cancontrol the movement of the sphere 902 within the cylinder 906 tocontrol the flow rate of a gas or liquid through the valve mechanism900. Similarly, the valve mechanism 900 can be used as a pressurecontrol valve. Furthermore, the ability to move an object within anotherobject having a decreasing size enables various types of sealingmechanisms that can be used for the sealing of windows, refrigerators,freezers, food storage containers, boat hatches, submarine hatches,etc., where the amount of sealing force can be precisely controlled. Oneskilled in the art will recognize that many different types of sealmechanisms that include gaskets, o-rings, and the like can be employedwith the use of the correlated magnets. Plus, one skilled in the artwill recognize that the magnetic field emission structures can have anarray of sources including, for example, a permanent magnet, anelectromagnet, an electret, a magnetized ferromagnetic material, aportion of a magnetized ferromagnetic material, a soft magneticmaterial, or a superconductive magnetic material, some combinationthereof, and so forth.

Multilevel Correlated Magnetic System

The present invention provides a multilevel correlated magnetic systemand method for using the multilevel correlated magnetic system. Itinvolves multilevel magnetic techniques related to those described inU.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/476,952, filed Jun. 2, 2009, andU.S. Provisional Patent Application 61/277,214, titled “A System andMethod for Contactless Attachment of Two Objects”, filed Sep. 22, 2009,and U.S. Provisional Patent Application 61/278,900, titled “A System andMethod for Contactless Attachment of Two Objects”, filed Sep. 30, 2009,and U.S. Provisional Patent Application 61/278,767 titled “A System andMethod for Contactless Attachment of Two Objects”, filed Oct. 9, 2009,U.S. Provisional Patent Application 61/280,094, titled “A System andMethod for Producing Multi-level Magnetic Fields”, filed Oct. 16, 2009,U.S. Provisional Patent Application 61/281,160, titled “A System andMethod for Producing Multi-level Magnetic Fields”, filed Nov. 13, 2009,U.S. Provisional Patent Application 61/283,780, titled “A System andMethod for Producing Multi-level Magnetic Fields”, filed Dec. 9, 2009,U.S. Provisional Patent Application 61/284,385, titled “A System andMethod for Producing Multi-level Magnetic Fields”, filed Dec. 17, 2009,and U.S. Provisional Patent Application 61/342,988, titled “A System andMethod for Producing Multi-level Magnetic Fields”, filed Apr. 22, 2010,which are all incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Suchsystems and methods described in U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/322,561, filed Feb. 4, 2009, U.S. patent application Ser. Nos.12/479,074, 12/478,889, 12/478,939, 12/478,911, 12/478,950, 12/478,969,12/479,013, 12/479,073, 12/479,106, filed Jun. 5, 2009, U.S. patentapplication Ser. Nos. 12/479,818, 12/479,820, 12/479,832, and12/479,832, file Jun. 7, 2009, U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/494,064, filed Jun. 29, 2009, U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/495,462, filed Jun. 30, 2009, U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/496,463, filed Jul. 1, 2009, U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/499,039, filed Jul. 7, 2009, U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/501,425, filed Jul. 11, 2009, and U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/507,015, filed Jul. 21, 2009 are all incorporated by reference hereinin their entirety.

In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, themultilevel correlated magnetic system includes a first correlatedmagnetic structure and a second correlated magnetic structure eachhaving a first portion comprising a plurality of complementary codedmagnetic sources and each having a second portion comprising one or moremagnetic sources intended to only repel or to only attract. The magneticsources employed in the invention may be permanent magnetic sources,electromagnets, electro-permanent magnets, or combinations thereof. Inaccordance with another embodiment of the present invention, bothportions of the two correlated magnetic structures may comprise aplurality of complementary coded magnetic sources. For both embodiments,when the first correlated magnetic structure is a certain separationdistance apart from the second correlated magnetic structure (i.e., at atransition distance), the multilevel correlated magnetic systemtransitions from either a repel mode to an attract mode or from anattract mode to a repel mode. Thus, the multilevel correlated magneticsystem has a repel level and an attract level.

The first portion of each of the two correlated magnetic structures,which has a plurality of coded magnetic sources, can be described asbeing a short range portion, and the second portion of each of the twocorrelated magnetic structures can be described as being a long rangeportion, where the short range portion and the long range portionproduce opposing forces that effectively work against each other. Theshort range portion produces a magnetic field having a higher near fielddensity and a lesser far field density than the magnetic field producedby the long range portion. Because of these near field and far fielddensity differences, the short range portion produces a higher peakforce than the long range portion yet has a faster field extinction ratesuch that the short range portion is stronger than the long rangeportion at separation distances less than the transition distance andweaker than the long range portion at separation distance greater thanthe transition distance, where the forces produced by two portionscancel each other when the two correlated magnetic structures areseparated by a distance equal to the transition distance. Thus, thefirst and second portions of the two correlated magnetic structuresproduce two opposite polarity force curves corresponding to theattractive force versus the separation distance between the twocorrelated magnetic structures and the repulsive force versus theseparation distance between the two correlated magnetic structures.

In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, thefirst (short range) portions of the two correlated magnetic structuresproduce an attractive force and the second (long range) portions of thetwo correlated magnetic structures produce a repulsive force. With thisarrangement, as the two complementary structures are brought near eachother they initially repel each other until they are at a transitiondistance, where they neither attract nor repel, and then when they arebrought together closer than the transition distance they begin toattract strongly, behaving as a “snap.” With this embodiment, theattraction curve is shorter range but its peak force is stronger thanthe longer range repulsive force curve.

In accordance with still another embodiment of the present invention,the polarities of the force curves are reversed with the shorter range,but stronger peak force curve being repulsive and the longer range butweaker peak force curve being attractive. With this arrangement, the twostructures attract each other beyond the transition distance and repeleach other when within the transition distance, which results in the twocorrelated magnetic structures achieving a contactless attachment wherethey are locked in relative position and in relative alignment yet theyare separated by the transition distance.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the short range portion andthe long range portion of the multi-level correlated magnetic systemcould both produce attractive forces to produce correlated magneticstructures having both a strong near field attractive force and a strongfar field attractive force, where the transition point corresponds to apoint at which the two attractive force curves cross. Similarly, theshort range portion and the long range portion could both producerepulsive forces to produce correlated magnetic structures having both astrong near field repulsive force and a strong far field repulsiveforce, where the transition point corresponds to a point at which thetwo repulsive force curves cross.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention, thetwo correlated magnetic field structures are attached to one or moremovement constraining structures. A movement constraining structure mayonly allow motion of the two correlated magnetic structures to or awayfrom each other where the two correlated magnetic structures are alwaysparallel to each other. The movement constraining structure may notallow twisting (or rotation) of either correlated magnetic fieldstructure. Similarly, the movement constraining structure may not allowsideways motion. Alternatively, one or more such movement constrainingstructures may have variable states whereby movement of the twocorrelated magnetic structures is constrained in some manner while in afirst state but not constrained or constrained differently duringanother state. For example, the movement constraining structure may notallow rotation of either correlated magnetic structure while in a firststate but allow rotation of one or both of the correlated magneticstructures while in another state.

One embodiment of the invention comprises a circular correlated magneticstructure having an annular ring of single polarity that surrounds acircular area within which reside an ensemble of coded magnetic sources.Under one arrangement corresponding to the snap behavior, the ensembleof coded magnetic sources would generate the shorter range, morepowerful peak attractive force curve and the annular ring would generatethe longer range, weaker peak repulsive force curve. Under a secondarrangement corresponding to the contactless attachment behavior, theseroles would be reversed.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the configuration of thecircular correlated magnetic structure would be reversed, with the codedensemble of coded magnetic sources occupying the outer annular ring andthe inner circle being of a single polarity. Under one arrangementcorresponding to the snap behavior, the ensemble of coded magneticsources present in the outer annular ring would generate the shorterrange, more powerful peak attractive force curve and the inner circlewould generate the longer range, weaker peak repulsive force curve.Under a second arrangement corresponding to the contactless attachmentbehavior, these roles would be reversed.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, an additionalmodulating element that produces an additional magnetic field can beused to increase or decrease the transition distance of a multilevelmagnetic field system 1000.

If one or more of the first portion and the second portion isimplemented with electromagnets or electro-permanent magnets then acontrol system could be used to vary either the short range force curveor the long range force curve.

The spatial force functions used in accordance with the presentinvention can be designed to allow movement (e.g., rotation) of at leastone of the correlated magnetic structures of the multilevel correlatedmagnetic system to vary either the short range force curve or the longrange force curve.

Referring to FIG. 10, there is shown an exemplary multilevel correlatedmagnetic system 1000 that comprises a first correlated magneticstructure 1002 a and a second magnetic structure 1002 b. The firstcorrelated magnetic structure 1002 a is divided into an outer portion1004 a and an inner portion 1006 a. Similarly, the second correlatedmagnetic structure 1002 b is divided into an outer portion 1004 b and aninner portion 1006 b. The outer portion 1004 a of the first correlatedmagnetic structure 1002 a and the outer portion 1004 b of the secondcorrelated magnetic structure 1002 b each have one or more magneticsources having positions and polarities that are coded in accordancewith a first code corresponding to a first spatial force function. Theinner portion 1006 a of the first correlated magnetic structure 1002 aand the inner portion 1006 b of the second correlated magnetic structure1002 b each have one or more magnetic sources having positions andpolarities that are coded in accordance with a second code correspondingto a second spatial force function.

Under one arrangement, the outer portions 1004 a, 1004 b each comprise aplurality of magnetic sources that are complementary coded so that theywill produce an attractive force when their complementary (i.e.,opposite polarity) source pairs are substantially aligned and which havea sharp attractive force versus separation distance (or throw) curve,and the inner portions 1006 a, 1006 b also comprise a plurality ofmagnetic sources that are anti-complementary coded such that theyproduce a repulsive force when their anti-complementary (i.e., samepolarity) source pairs are substantially aligned but have a broader,less sharp, repulsive force versus separation distance (or throw) curve.As such, when brought into proximity with each other and substantiallyaligned the first and second correlated magnetic field structures 1002a, 1002 b will have a snap behavior whereby their spatial forcestransition from a repulsive force to an attractive force. Alternatively,the inner portions 1006 a, 1006 b could each comprise multiple magneticsources having the same polarity orientation or could each beimplemented using just one magnetic source in which case a similar snapbehavior would be produced.

Under another arrangement, the outer portions 1004 a, 1004 b eachcomprise a plurality of magnetic sources that are anti-complementarycoded so that they will produce a repulsive force when theiranti-complementary (i.e., same polarity) source pairs are substantiallyaligned and which have a sharp repulsive force versus separationdistance (or throw) curve, and the inner portions 1006 a, 1006 b alsocomprise a plurality of magnetic sources that are complementary codedsuch that they produce an attractive force when their complementary(i.e., opposite polarity) source pairs are substantially aligned buthave a broader, less sharp, attractive force versus separation distance(or throw) curve. As such, when brought into proximity with each otherand substantially aligned the first and second correlated magnetic fieldstructures 1002 a, 1002 b will have a contactless attachment behaviorwhere they achieve equilibrium at a transition distance where theirspatial forces transition from an attractive force to a repulsive force.Alternatively, the outer portions 1004 a, 1004 b could each comprisemultiple magnetic sources having the same polarity orientation or couldeach be implemented using just one magnetic source in which case asimilar contactless attachment behavior would be produced.

For arrangements where both the outer portions 1004 a, 1004 b and theinner portions 1006 a, 1006 b comprise a plurality of coded magneticsources, there can be greater control over their response to movementdue to the additional correlation. For example, when twisting onecorrelated magnetic structure relative to the other, the long rangeportion can be made to de-correlate at the same or similar rate as theshort rate portion thereby maintaining a higher accuracy on the lockposition. Alternatively, the multilevel correlated magnetic system 1000may use a special configuration of non-coded magnetic sources asdiscussed in detail below with respect to FIGS. 18A-18F.

FIG. 11 depicts a multilevel transition distance determination plot1100, which plots the absolute value of a first force versus separationdistance curve 1102 corresponding to the short range portions of the twocorrelated magnetic structures 1002 a, 1002 b making up the multilevelmagnetic field structure 1000, and the absolute value of a second forceversus separation distance curve 1104 corresponding to the long rangeportions of the two correlated magnetic structures 1002 a, 1002 b. Thetwo curves cross at an transition point 1106, which while the twocorrelated magnetic structures 1002 a, 1002 b approach each othercorresponds to a transition distance 1108 at which the two correlatedmagnetic structures 1002 a, 1002 b will transition from a repel mode toan attract mode or from an attract mode to a repel mode depending onwhether the short range portions are configured to attract and the longrange portions are configured to repel or vice versa.

FIG. 12 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a multilevel magnetic fieldstructure 1000 having first and second correlated magnetic structures1002 a, 1002 b that each have outer portions 1004 a, 1004 b havingmagnetic sources in an alternating positive-negative pattern and eachhave inner portions 1006 a, 1006 b having one positive magnetic source.As such, the first and second magnetic field structures 1002 a, 1002 bare substantially identical. Alternatively, the coding of the twocorrelated magnetic structures 1002 a, 1002 b could be complementary yetnot in an alternating positive-negative pattern in which case the twostructures 1002 a, 1002 b would not be identical.

FIG. 13A depicts yet another embodiment of a multilevel magnetic fieldstructure 1000 having first and second correlated magnetic structures1002 a, 1002 b that each have inner portions 1006 a, 1006 b havingmagnetic sources in an alternating positive-negative pattern and eachhave outer portions 1004 a, 1004 b having one negative magnetic source.As such, the first and second magnetic field structures 1002 a, 1002 bare identical but can be combined to produce a short range attractiveforce and a long range repulsive force.

FIG. 13B depicts and alternative to the correlated magnetic structure1002 b of FIG. 13A which is almost the same except the outer portion1004 b has a positive polarity. The two correlated magnetic structures1002 a, 1002 b can be combined to produce a short range repulsive forceand a long range attractive force.

FIG. 13C depicts yet another alternative to the correlated magneticstructure 1002 a of FIG. 13A, where the correlated magnetic structure1002 a is circular and the coding of the inner portion 1006 a does notcorrespond to an alternating positive-negative pattern. To complete themultilevel magnetic field system 1000, a second circular correlatedmagnetic structure 1002 b would be used which has an inner portion 1006b having complementary coding and which has a outer portion 1006 bhaving the same polarity as the outer portion 1006 a of the firstcircular correlated magnetic field structure 1002 a.

FIGS. 14A and 14B provide different views of a first object 1400 and asecond object 1402 being attached without contact due to the contactlessattachment achieved by three different multilevel devices 1000 eachcomprising first and second correlated magnetic structures 1002 a, 1002b. One skilled in the art will recognize that one multilevel structure100 or two or more multilevel structures 100 can be employed to providecontactless attachment between two objects 1400,1402. In fact, oneaspect of the present invention is that it can be used to controlposition of an object 1400 relative to another object 1402 withoutcontact between the two objects 1400, 1402.

As discussed above, multiple multi-level correlated magnetic systems1000 can be used together to provide contactless attachment of twoobjects 1400, 1402. For example, three or more such structures can beemployed to act like magnetic “invisible legs” to hold an object inplace above a surface. Similarly, two or more “snap” implementations canbe used to hold an object to another object. For example, four snapmulti-level structures placed in four corners of a tarp might be used tocover a square opening. Generally, different combinations of contactlessattachment structures and snap structures can be combined. For example,a snap structure might secure an object to the end of a rotating shaftand contactless attachment structures could be used to maintainseparation between an object being rotated over another surface.Specifically, a first circular band-like multi-level correlated magneticstructure on a bottom surface or a top surface could interact withanother circular band-like multi-level correlated magnetic structure onthe opposing surface or even a smaller arch (i.e., subset of one of thebands) could be used on one of the surfaces.

Under another arrangement, the “contactless” multi-level correlatedmagnetic system 1000 can be used as a magnetic spring or shock absorber.Such magnetic springs could be used in countless applications where theywould absorb vibrations, prevent damage, etc. In particular thedissipative element of a shock absorber may be created by positioning aconductor in the magnetic field and allowing the creation of shortededdy currents due to its motion to damp the oscillation.

Under yet another arrangement, the “contactless” multi-level correlatedmagnetic system 1000 can be used to make doors and drawers that arequiet since they can be designed such that doors, cabinet doors, anddrawers will close and magnetically attach yet not make contact.

Under another arrangement, the “contactless” multi-level correlatedmagnetic system 1000 can be used for child safety and animal proofdevices which require a child or animal to overcome, for example bypushing or pulling an object, a repel force before something engages. Ifdesired, the new devices can have forms of electrical switches,mechanical latches, and the like where the repel force can be prescribedsuch that a child or animal would find it difficult to overcome theforce while an adult would not. Such devices might optionally employ aspacer to control the amount of attractive force (if any) that thedevices could achieve.

Generally, correlated magnetic structures can be useful for assistingblind people by enabling them to attach objects in known locations andorientations making them easier to locate and manipulate. Unique codingcould also provide unique magnetic identifications of objects such thatplacing an object in the wrong location would be rejected (ordisallowed).

Generator devices can be designed to incorporate the “contactless”multi-level correlated magnetic system 1000 and work with slow movingobjects, for example, a wind mill, without requiring the gears currentlybeing used to achieve adequate power generation.

One application that can incorporate the “contactless” multi-levelcorrelated magnetic system 1000 is an anti-kick blade release mechanismfor a saw whereby when a blade bites into an object, e.g., wood, suchthat it would become locked and would otherwise kick the blade up and/orthe object out, the blade would disengage. The saw would automaticallyturn off upon this occurrence.

Another application of the “contactless” multi-level correlated magneticsystem 1000 is with flying model aircraft which would allow portionssuch as wings to be easily attached to enable flying but easily detachedfor storage and transport.

Below are some additional ideas for devices incorporating the“contactless” multi-level correlated magnetic system 1000 technology:

-   -   Patient levitation beds based on magnetic repulsion to reduce        and/or eliminate bedsores during hospital stays. Magnets would        be built into a patient carrier which would then be supported        and held in place by corresponding magnets on the bed.    -   Patient gurney which uses correlated magnets to lock it into        place inside the ambulance. Replaces conventional locks which        are subject to spring wear, dirt, corrosion, etc.    -   Patient restraining device using correlated magnets. Could use        keyed magnets on patient clothing and corresponding magnets on a        chair, etc.    -   Engine or motor mounts which use multi-level contactless        attachment devices to reduce or eliminate vibration.    -   Easily removable seat pads.    -   Boot/shoe fasteners to eliminate strings or Velcro.    -   Self-aligning hitch for trailers.    -   Elevator door lock to replace conventional mechanical locks.    -   Keyed magnet spare tire mount.    -   Interchangeable shoe soles (sports shoes, personal wear, etc.)    -   Light bulb bases to replace screw mounts.    -   Oven rotisserie using slow-motor technology.    -   Kitchen microwave rotating platform using slow-motor technology.    -   No-contact clutch plate, eliminating wearable, friction plates.    -   Longer-lasting exercise bike using variable opposing magnets        (eliminating friction-based components).    -   Purse clasp.    -   Keyed gate latch.    -   Using linear magnets to stop runaway elevators or other        mechanical devices.

Referring to FIGS. 15A-15B, there is illustrated yet another arrangementwhere the “snap” multi-level correlated magnetic system 1000 can be usedto produce a momentary snap switch 1500 in accordance with an embodimentof the present invention. As depicted in FIG. 15A, the exemplarymomentary snap switch 1500 comprises a spring 1502, two contacts 1504 aand 1504 b, a spacer 1506 and a snap multi-level correlated magneticsystem 1000. The purpose of the spacer 1506 is to prevent the components1002 a and 1002 b of the snap multi-level correlated magnetic system1000 from contacting, thereby keeping the net force repulsive. FIGS. 15Band 15C illustrate the purpose of the spacer 1506, where FIG. 15Bdepicts the absolute value of the attractive and repulsive force curvesof the snap multi-level correlated magnetic system 1000 with respect tothe separation of the correlated magnetic structures 1002 a, 1002 b, andFIG. 15C depicts the sum of the attractive and repulsive force curves ofthe snap multi-level correlated magnetic system 1000 plotted as theinput external force on the X axis vs. the snap multi-level correlatedmagnetic system 1000 response force on the Y axis. Referring to FIG.15B, the spacer 1506 keeps the two correlated magnetic structures 1002a, 1002 b from contacting and prevents the snap multi-level correlatedmagnetic system 1000 from transitioning into the attractive regime,which prevents the correlated magnetic structures 1002 a, 1002 b fromsticking when the external force is removed. Referring to FIG. 15C, thespacer contact distance is some location between the peak repel forceand the transition point which is between the attractive and repulsiveregimes. One skilled in the art will recognize that multipleconfigurations and various approaches are possible for preventing thesnap multi-level correlated magnetic system 1000 from transitioning intothe attractive regime.

The hysteresis of the momentary snap switch 1500 can be describedrelative to FIG. 15D. As the spring 1502 is compressed by an externalforce 1508 it brings the correlated magnetic structures 1002 a, 1002 bcloser together. This is illustrated by travelling up the 45 degree linein FIG. 15D. The external force 1508 needed to compress the snapmulti-level correlated magnetic system 1000 increases until at a certaindistance the force begins to decrease with further compression. Thiscreates an instability that causes the snap multi-level correlatedmagnetic system 1000 to accelerate closure until the contacts 1504 a,1504 b are closed. At that point, the snap multi-level correlatedmagnetic system 1000 requires only a small holding force to keep thecontacts 1504 a, 1504 b closed and the compressed spring 1502 easilysupplies that force. When the external force 1508 on the spring 1502 isrelaxed the contacts 1504 a, 1504 b remain closed until another criticalpoint at which the spring 1502 force is equal to the snap multi-levelcorrelated magnetic system 1000 repel force. At that point, the snapmulti-level correlated magnetic system 1000 begins to accelerate openuntil they reach the maximum force point and then begins to decrease,compressing the spring 1502 against the external force 1508. Thecontacts 1504 a, 1504 b then are apart by an amount that causes therepel force and the external force (spring force) to be equal. The cyclecan be repeated by then re-compressing the spring 1502. This lattertransient behavior is shown in FIG. 15D by the top two arrows as theyapproach the stable position on the 45 degree line.

FIG. 16 is a diagram that depicts the force vs. position relationshipbetween the spring 1502 and the two magnets 1002 a, 1002 b making up thesnap correlated magnetic structure 1000 of the momentary snap switch1500 of FIG. 15A.

FIG. 17A depicts the position of the external force 1508 versus theposition of the correlated magnetic structure 1002 a of the momentarysnap switch 1500 as the external force 1508 is applied over a period oftime to the momentary snap switch 1500 of FIG. 15A and then released.Referring to FIG. 17A, the position of an external force 1508 (e.g., afinger) applied to the momentary snap switch 1500 is shown by a firstcurve 1702, where the external force 1508 moves from a first positioncorresponding to when the momentary snap switch 1500 is in the openposition to a second position corresponding to when the momentary snapswitch 1500 is in a closed position and then returns to the firstposition as the external force 1508 is removed from the momentary snapswitch 1500. One skilled in the art will recognize that the externalforce 1508 could be applied by any object, for example, a piece ofautomated equipment. The position of the correlated magnetic structure1002 a shown with a second curve 1704 can be described in relation tothe first curve 1702. Referring to the two curves 1702, 1704, thecorrelated magnetic structure 1002 a begins at its open position andmoves closer to the second correlated magnetic structure 1002 b as theexternal force 1508 depresses the spring 1502 and presses down on themomentary snap switch 1500. Initially, the correlated magnetic structure1002 a moves linearly relative to the movement of the external force1508 since the spring 1502 and correlated magnetic structure 1002 a areessentially pushing against each other because the snap multi-levelcorrelated magnetic system 1000 is in a repel state (or mode). Whenapproaching a transition distance the snap multi-level correlatedmagnetic system 1000 begins to transition from a repel state to anattractive state. As its force law goes from a peak repulsive force andbegins to go towards a zero force the external force 1508 applied to thespring 1502 is encountering less and less repulsive force causing thecorrelated magnetic structure 1002 a to move rapidly downward until thespacer 1506 stops the correlated magnetic structure 1002 a from movingcloser to the other correlated magnetic structure 1002 b. Its positionremains the same until the external force 1508 position has movedsufficiently away from the switch's closed position and towards theswitch's open position such that the correlated magnetic structure 1002a is repelled away from the spacer 1506, which corresponds to the abruptrise in the second curve 1704. The correlated magnetic structure 1002 athen moves linearly as the external force 1508 is removed from themomentary snap switch 1500 until the snap multi-level correlatedmagnetic system 1000 is again at its open position.

FIG. 17B depicts the magnet force as the external force 1508 is appliedto the momentary snap switch 1500 of FIG. 15A and then released.Referring to FIG. 17B, the magnet force as shown by a curve 1706 thatbegins at a minimum repulsive force that occurs when the snapmulti-level correlated magnetic system 1000 is in its open position. Asthe external force 1508 is applied the magnet force increases until thecorrelated magnetic structure 1002 a begins to approach the transitiondistance when it begins to transition from a repel state to anattractive state. As its force law goes from a peak repulsive force andbegins to go towards a zero force, the external force 1508 applied tothe spring 1502 is encountering less and less repulsive force causingthe correlated magnetic structure 1002 a to move rapidly downward untilthe spacer 1506 stops it from moving closer to the other correlatedmagnetic structure 1002 b. The magnet force is maintained until theposition of the external force 1508 has moved sufficiently away from theswitch's closed position and towards the switch's open position suchthat the correlated magnetic structure 1002 a is repelled away from thespacer 1506, which corresponds to the abrupt rise in the second curve1706. The correlated magnetic structure 1002 a repels and the forceincreases until it is pushed downward by the spring and thereafter theyachieve equilibrium. The magnet force then reduces as the external force1508 is removed until the magnet force is again at the minimum repulsiveforce corresponding to its open position.

FIG. 17C depicts the position of the correlated magnetic structure 1002a versus the position of the external force 1508 as the external force1508 is applied to the momentary snap switch 1500 of FIG. 15A and thenreleased. Referring to FIG. 17C and a curve 1708, the correlatedmagnetic structure 1002 a and external force 1508 begin at a firstposition corresponding to the switch's open position, which is in theupper right of the plot. The curve 1708 moves linearly as the externalforce 1508 is applied since the correlated magnetic structure 1002 a andspring 1502 are in equilibrium (i.e., pushing against each other). Asthe correlated magnetic structure 1002 a begins to approach thetransition distance when it begins to transition from a repel state toan attractive state its force law goes from a peak repulsive force andbegins to go towards a zero force. At this time, the external force 1508applied to the spring 1502 is encountering less and less repulsive forcecausing the correlated magnetic structure 1002 a to move rapidlydownward while the external force 1508 position is at the same locationuntil the spacer 1506 stops the correlated magnetic structure 1002 afrom moving closer to the other correlated magnetic structure 1002 b.The correlated magnetic structure 1002 a remains in the same positionwhile the external force 1508 is applied until the snap multi-levelcorrelated magnetic system 1000 reaches its closed position and thecorrelated magnetic structure 1002 a continues to remain in the sameposition until the external force 1508 position has moved sufficientlyaway from the switch's closed position and towards the switch's openposition such that the correlated magnetic structure 1002 a is repelledaway from the spacer 1506, which corresponds to the abrupt right turn inthe curve 1708. The correlated magnetic structure 1002 a and the spring1502 again achieve equilibrium and then move linearly until they havereached the upper right location in the plot that corresponds to theswitch's open position.

FIGS. 18A-18F depict alternative arrangements for snap multi-levelcorrelated magnetic systems 1000 that can be used in accordance with themomentary snap switch 1500 of FIG. 15A. Very importantly, the relativesizes and the field strengths of the correlated magnetic structures 1002a and 1002 b of the snap multi-level correlated magnetic systems 1000 ofFIGS. 18A-18F are configured to produce hysteresis propertiescorresponding to desired operational characteristics of the momentarysnap switch 1500 of FIG. 15A. Additionally, although they are describedin relation to the snap-repel magnetic structures used in the momentarysnap switch 1500 of FIG. 15A, one skilled in the art will recognizethat, as described above, the multi-level correlated magnetic systems1000 can be alternatively configured to have contactless attachmentbehavior.

Referring to FIG. 18A, the multi-level magnetic systems 1000 includes afirst magnetic structure 1002 a and a second magnetic structure 1002 b.The first magnetic structure comprises a first outer portion 1004 a anda first inner portion 1006 a and the second magnetic structure 1002 bcomprises a second outer portion 1004 b and a second inner portion 1006b. The first and second outer portions 1004 a and 1004 b have magneticsources having the opposite polarity so they will produce an attractiveforce. The first and second inner portions 1006 a and 1006 b havemagnetic sources having the same polarity so they will produce arepulsive force. Under one arrangement, a positive magnetic source ismagnetized in the first inner portion 1006 a of the positive side of aconventional magnet 1002 a and a positive magnetic source is magnetizedin the second inner portion 1006 b of a negative side of a conventionalmagnet 1002 b. Under an alternative arrangement, a negative magneticsource is magnetized in the first inner portion 1006 a of the positiveside of a conventional magnet 1002 a and a negative magnetic source ismagnetized in the second inner portion 1006 b of a negative side of aconventional magnet 1002 b. Under another arrangement, a positivemagnetic source is magnetized in the first inner portion 1006 a and anegative source is magnetized in the first outer portion 1004 a of thefirst magnetic structure 1002 a, and a positive magnetic source ismagnetized in the second inner portion 1006 b and a positive source ismagnetized in the second outer portion 1004 a of the second magneticstructure 1002 b. Under yet another arrangement, a negative magneticsource is magnetized in the first inner portion 1006 a and a positivesource is magnetized in the first outer portion 1004 a of the firstmagnetic structure 1002 a, and a negative magnetic source is magnetizedin the second inner portion 1006 b and a negative source is magnetizedin the second outer portion 1004 a of the second magnetic structure 1002b.

Referring to FIG. 18B, a multi-level magnetic system 1000 includes amagnetic structure 1002 and a conventional magnet 1800 having a firstpolarity on one side and a second polarity on its other side that isopposite the first polarity. The magnetic structure 1002 comprises anouter portion 1004 and an inner portion 1006. Under one arrangement, thefirst polarity of the conventional magnet 1800 is a positive polarityand the inner portion 1006 of the magnetic structure 1002 is magnetizedto have a positive polarity while the outer portion 1004 of the magneticstructure 1002 is magnetized to have a negative polarity. Under anotherarrangement, the magnetic structure 1002 is initially a secondconventional magnet having the opposite polarity as the firstconventional magnet 1800 but the inner portion 1006 of the magneticstructure 1002 is then magnetized to have the same polarity as the firstconventional magnet 1800. As such, when the depicted sides of themagnetic structure 1002 and the conventional magnet 1800 are broughttogether they will produce the multi-level repel and snap behavior.

FIGS. 18C-18F are intended to illustrate that different shapes can beused for the magnetic structures 1002, 1002 a, 1002 b, 1004 a, 1004 b,1800 as well as the inner portions 1006, 1006 a, 1006 b and outerportions 1004, 1004 a, 1004 b of the magnetic structures 1002, 1002 a,1002 b, 1004 a, 1004 b, 1800 that make up a multi-level magnetic system1000. In FIG. 18C, the magnetic structures 1002 a 1002 b are rectangularand the inner portions 1006 a 1006 b are circular. In FIG. 18D, theinner portion 1006 of the magnetic structure 1002 is rectangular. InFIGS. 18E and 18F, the inner portions 1006, 1006 a have a hexagonalshape. Generally, one skilled in the art will recognize that manydifferent variations of first portions and second portions of twomagnetic structures can be employed to include portions that are next toeach other and not nested so that there is an inner and outer portion.For example, side-by-side stripes having different strengths could beemployed.

FIG. 19A depicts an alternative exemplary momentary snap switch 1900where the spring 1502 of FIG. 15A is replaced by a magnet 1902configured to produce a repel force 1904 with the correlated magneticstructure 1002 a. Referring to FIG. 19A, the momentary snap switch 1900employs two magnets 1002 and 1004 (e.g., correlated magnetic structures1002 a, 1002 b) configured to function as a snap multi-level system 1000and an upper magnet 1902 configured to produce a repel force with magnet1002. The three magnets 1002, 1004, 1902 are constrained within amovement constraint system 1906 that only allows up and down movement ofthe upper magnet 1902 and the middle magnet 1002. In addition, themomentary snap switch 1900 employs two contacts 1910 a and 1910 b wherecontact 1910 a is associated with magnet 1002 and contact 1910 b isassociated with magnet 1004. Furthermore, the momentary snap switch 1900employs a spacer 1912 attached to magnet 1004 where the purposed of thespacer 1912 is to prevent the components of the snap multi-levelmagnetic system 1000 from contacting, thereby keeping the net forcerepulsive. The spacer 1912 could instead be attached to magnet 1002.Alternatively, a first spacer 1912 could be attached to magnet 1004 anda second spacer 1912 could be attached to magnet 1002.

In operation, when an external force 1908 is applied to the upper magnet1902, the repel force between the upper magnet 1902 and the middlemagnet 1002 acts similar to the spring 1502 of FIG. 15A, where becausethe repel force 1904 is greater than the repel force produced betweenthe magnets 1002, 1004 means that the snap multi-level system 1000 willproduce substantially the same hysteresis behavior as the spring 1502.However, because only magnetism is employed, the hysteresis behaviorshould remain unchanged, essentially forever assuming the use ofpermanent magnets 1002, 1004, 1902. FIG. 19B depicts an alternativemomentary switch 1900′ where the spring 1502 of FIG. 15A is replaced bya magnet 1902 configured to be half of a contactless attachmentmulti-level system 1000 where the other half is magnet 1002. One skilledin the art will recognize that the momentary switches 1900 and 1900′ inFIGS. 19A and 19B will function the same regardless of the orientationof the device 1900 and 1900′ (e.g., it could be turned upside down). Assuch, the terminology “upper magnet” and “up and down movement” are notintended to be limiting but merely descriptive given the orientationdepicted in FIGS. 19A and 19B. Furthermore, one skilled in the art willrecognize that the characteristics of the code(s) used to produce themagnetic structures 1002, 1004, 1902 determine the type of translationaland rotational constraints required.

FIG. 19C depicts two magnets 1914, 1916 and an optional spacer 1918 thatcould be used in place of the middle magnet 1002 shown in FIGS. 19A and19B.

FIG. 20A depicts the force vs. position relationship between the outermagnet 1902 and the two magnets 1002, 1004 of the snap multi-levelsystem 1000 in the momentary snap switch 1900 of FIG. 19A.

FIG. 20B depicts the force vs. position relationship between the outermagnet 1902 and the two magnets 1002, 1004 of the snap multi-levelsystem 1000 in the momentary snap switch 1900′ of FIG. 19B.

FIGS. 21A-21F illustrate an exemplary cylinder 2100 utilizing themomentary snap switch 1900 in accordance with an embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 21A depicts a push button 2102 attached to a first magnet 1902 ofthe exemplary momentary switch 1900. FIG. 21B depicts a second magnet1002 having an associated electrical contact 1910 a of the exemplarymomentary switch 1900. FIG. 21C depicts a third magnet 1004 (supportedon a base 2104) of the exemplary momentary switch 1900. FIG. 21D depictsthe exemplary cylinder 2100 having an upper lip 2106, a slot 2108, a tophole 2110, and a bottom hole 2112 configured to receive the push button2102 and first magnet 1902 of FIG. 21A, the second magnet 1002 andcontact 1910 a of FIG. 21B, and the third magnet 1004 and base 2104 ofFIG. 21C. FIG. 21E depicts an assembled cylinder 2100 with the exemplarymomentary switch 1900 in its normal open state with the spacer 1912 andcontact 1910 b positioned in the slot 2108 and on top of the thirdmagnet 1004. FIG. 21F depicts the assembled cylinder 2100 with theexemplary momentary switch 1900 in its closed state.

One skilled in the art will recognize that many different variations ofthe exemplary momentary switch 1900 used in the exemplary cylinder 2100of FIGS. 21A-21F are possible for producing different momentaryswitches, other switches, and other types of devices where repeatablehysteresis behavior is desirable. Variations include different shapes ofmagnets 1002, 1004, 1902 and different shapes of movement constrainingsystems 1906 as well as different methods of constraining the magnets1002, 1004, 1902 included in such devices. For example, ring magnetscould be employed that surround a central cylinder as opposed to anouter constraint. Both inner and outer constraint methods could beemployed. Any of various types of mechanical devices such as hinges orthe like could be used to constrain the magnets. Generally, one skilledin the art could devise numerous configurations to produce suchrepeatable hysteresis behavior in accordance with the invention.

FIGS. 22A-22C illustrate an exemplary magnetic cushioning device 2200 inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 22A depictsa female component 2202 of the exemplary magnetic cushioning device2200. FIG. 22B depicts a male component 2204 (e.g., piston 2204) of theexemplary magnetic cushioning device 2202. FIG. 22C depicts theassembled exemplary magnetic cushioning device 2200 wherein the femalecomponent 2202 (including magnet 1002 and spacer 1912) is movablypositioned over the male component 2204 (including magnet 1004). Themagnetic cushioning device 2200 is similar to the bottom portion of theexemplary momentary switch 1900 of FIGS. 21A-22F in that its two magnets1002 and 1004 and the spacer 1912 produce a multi-level repel snapbehavior that has a repeatable hysteresis behavior. However, instead ofbeing a switch, the magnetic cushioning device 2200 of FIGS. 22A-22Cdoes not require circuitry for a switch and instead acts much like ashock absorber that utilizes magnetism instead of a spring. The magneticcushioning device 2200 can be used for all sorts of applications thatuse a spring for cushioning including beds such as home beds or hospitalbeds; seats or backs of chairs in a home, an airplane, a vehicle, a racecar, a bus, a train, etc.; shock absorbers for vehicles; bumpers forvehicles; protective shielding for vehicles; and the like. Unlike aspring, however, where the force of the spring continues to increase asan external force is applied, the magnetic cushioning device 2200exhibits a peak repel force and then a reduction in the repel force asthe magnets 1002 and 1004 move together until held apart by the spacer1912. The spacer 1912 can be attached to either one of the magnets 1002and 1004.

FIGS. 23A-23C illustrate another exemplary magnetic cushioning device2300 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 23Adepicts a female component 2302 of the exemplary magnetic cushioningdevice 2300. FIG. 23B depicts a male component 2304 (e.g., piston 2304)of the exemplary magnetic cushioning device 2302. FIG. 23C depicts theassembled exemplary magnetic cushioning device 2300 wherein the femalecomponent 2302 (including magnet 1002 and spacer 1912) is movablypositioned over the male component 2304 (including magnet 1004). Themagnetic cushioning device 2300 is similar to the bottom portion of theexemplary momentary switch 1900 of FIGS. 21A-22F in that its two magnets1002 and 1004 and the spacer 1912 produce a multi-level repel snapbehavior that has a repeatable hysteresis behavior. However, instead ofbeing a switch, the magnetic cushioning device 2300 of FIGS. 23A-23Cdoes not require circuitry for a switch and instead acts much like ashock absorber that utilizes magnetism instead of a spring. The magneticcushioning device 2300 can be used for all sorts of applications thatuse a spring for cushioning including beds such as home beds or hospitalbeds; seats or backs of chairs in a home, an airplane, a vehicle, a racecar, a bus, a train, etc.; shock absorbers for vehicles; bumpers forvehicles; protective shielding for vehicles; and the like. Unlike aspring, however, where the force of the spring continues to increase asan external force is applied, the magnetic cushioning device 2300exhibits a peak repel force and then a reduction in the repel force asthe magnets 1002 and 1004 move together until held apart by the spacer1912. The exemplary magnetic cushioning device 2300 when compared tomagnetic cushioning device 2200 is intended to demonstrate thatdifferent shapes of magnets 1002 and 1004 and enclosures 2302 and 2304could be used by one skilled in the art to produce any type desiredcushioning device in accordance with the invention.

FIG. 24 depicts a first exemplary array 2400 of a plurality of theexemplary magnetic cushioning devices 2200. As depicted, each row ofcushioning devices 2200 is shifted by approximately half of a width of acircular cushioning device 2200 thereby enabling them to be compactedtogether with less air gaps between them.

FIG. 25 depicts a second exemplary array 2500 of a plurality of theexemplary magnetic cushioning devices 2200 that are aligned in rows andcolumns. Generally, one skilled in the art will recognize that dependingon the shape of the magnets employed and the enclosures used to producethe cushioning devices 2200, 2300 and alternatives that variousarrangements could be used such that function well together, forexample, as part of a seat cushion or bed mattress.

FIG. 26 depicts an exemplary cushion 2600 employing another exemplaryarray of the exemplary magnetic cushioning devices 2200. Such a cushion2600 might be used in a mattress, as a seat, or as otherwise described.One skilled in the art will understand that conventional methods such asuse of springs, foam, or other types of materials could be employed inconjunction with the magnetic cushioning devices 2200. For instance,cushioning devices 2200 and 2300 in accordance with the presentinvention could be used to produce heels for shoes or boots and can beused for soles or pads that are placed into shoes or boots. Similarcushioning devices 2200 and 2300 could be used for knee pads, elbowpads, or any sort of protective gear used by athletes, workers, militarypersonnel or the like where an impact needs to be absorbed to preventharm to a person.

FIG. 27 depicts an exemplary shock absorber 2700 that has powergeneration capabilities in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention. The exemplary shock absorber 2700 utilizes a cushioningdevice 2200 (including two magnets and a spacer) previously described inFIGS. 22A-22C and one or more other magnets 2702 and corresponding coils2704 to generate electricity 2706. FIG. 27 depicts the shock absorber2700 having one shaft 2708 attached to one end of the cushioning device2200 and at another end there is attached shaft 2710 which has themagnet 2702 surrounding it and the coil 2704 surrounding the magnet2702.

Under yet another arrangement, a device can be produced includingmultiple layers of multi-level magnetic systems 1000 including thosethat have repeatable hysteresis behavior. FIG. 28 depicts an exemplarydevice 2800 that has three multi-level magnetic systems 1000, 1000′ and1000′. The first and second multi-level magnetic systems 1000 and 1000′are “repel-snap” and the third multi-level magnetic system 1000″ is“contactless attachment”. As shown, the exemplary device 2800 includesfour magnets including two with spacers used to produce the threemulti-level magnetic systems 1000, 1000′ and 1000′ each exhibitingmulti-level magnetism behaviors. As depicted, magnets 1 and 2 each havespacers. Magnets 1 and 2 and 2 and 3 produce repel-snap behavior thatcombine and the magnets 3 and 4 produce contactless attachment. Thecombined combination of the four magnets 1, 2, 3, and 4 corresponds toprogrammable repeatable hysteresis. One skilled in the art willrecognize that all sorts of behaviors can be producing by combiningmultiple layers of the aforementioned multi-level magnetic systems 1000.

Under another arrangement it is possible to design two magneticstructures to produce multiple layers of multi-level magnetism. Usingonly two magnetic structures, many different combinations of magnetizedregions can be produced. FIGS. 29A-29D depict two magnetic structures2902 and 2904 that are coded to produce three levels of magnetism.Specifically, as the two magnetic structures 2902 and 2904 are broughttowards each other there is an outer attractive layer (or level), arepel layer, and then an attractive layer when they are attached. FIG.29A depicts two magnetic structures 2902 and 2904 each made up of threecoded regions 2902 a, 2902 b, 2902 c, 2904 a, 2904 b, and 2904 c, wherethe first and second coded regions 2902 a, 2902 b, 2904 a, and 2904 bare coded to produce a contactless attachment behavior and their thirdcoded regions 2902 c and 2904 c are coded to produce a strong attachmentlayer having a very short throw that is much less than the equilibriumdistance produced by the second and third coded regions 2902 b, 2902 c,2904 b, and 2904 c. FIG. 29B depicts the two magnetic structures 2902and 2904 being separated by a distance greater than the engagementdistance of the outer attract layer. FIG. 29C depicts the two magneticstructures 2902 and 2904 positioned relative to each other such thatthey are at an equilibrium distance between their outer attractive layerand their repel layer. FIG. 29D depicts the two magnetic structures 2902and 2904 in contact where they are in a very thin but strong attractivelayer, where the attractive force is greater than the repel force withthe thickness of the inner attractive layer. One skilled in the art willrecognize that the various regions of the two magnetic structures 2902and 2904 are not required to be contiguous (i.e., alongside or otherwisein contact). Instead, magnetic structures can be produced where themagnetized regions are on separate pieces of material that areconfigured apart from each other yet are configured to work together toproduce multi-level magnetism. This approach is similar to usingdiscrete (i.e., separate) magnets as magnetic sources versus maxelsprinted onto a single piece of material. Generally, all sorts ofcombinations are possible where the two interacting magnetic structures2902 and 2904 are each either a single piece of material or multiplepieces of material, contiguous pieces of material or non-contiguouspieces of material, discrete magnets, or printed maxels, etc.

FIGS. 29B through 29D also depict optional sensors 2906 that could beused as part of a control system (not shown). Generally, one or moresensors 2906 can be used to measure a characteristic of the magnetismbetween the two magnetic structures 2902 and 2904, where measurementscan correspond to different control states (e.g., non-engaged state,equilibrium state, and closed state).

FIG. 29E depicts an exemplary force curve 2908 for the two magneticstructures 2902 and 2904 of FIGS. 29A-29D. As shown, the two magneticstructures 2902 and 2904 have an outer attractive force layer where theforce reaches a peak attractive force before transitioning to a repelforce layer where a first zero crossing corresponds to an equilibriumposition (or separation distance). The two magnetic structures 2902 and2904 can then be forced through the repel layer thereby overcoming apeak repel force before the force decays to zero at a second zerocrossing and then the two structures will attract and attach within aninner attractive layer. As previously described, a spacer can be used toprevent the two structures 2902 and 2904 from getting any closer than adesired separation distance (e.g., the distance corresponding to thesecond zero crossing). Similarly, the third coding regions of twomagnetic structures 2902 and 2904 could be used in place of a spacer toproduce repeatable hysteresis corresponding to a repel snap behaviorwhere there is also an innermost repel layer having the same strengthand throw as the attractive forces that would otherwise enable a snapbehavior. Thus, the repel force would achieve a peak and then degrade tozero at some separation distance and remain zero within that distance.

It should be noted that multilevel structures 2902 and 2904 do not haveto be symmetrical and do not need to be circular (e.g., involvingconcentric circular regions). Multi-level magnetism can be achievedusing coding that resembles stripes, coding corresponding to irregularpatterns, coding correspond to stripes within circles, and usingcountless other coding arrangements.

FIGS. 30A-30D depict an exemplary laptop computer 3002 having ergonomicsthat control its state based on the position of its top portion 3004(i.e., the portion having the display screen) relative to a bottomportion 3006 (i.e., the portion having the keyboard). As depicted inFIG. 30A sensor data indicates that two magnetic structures 2902 and2904 embedded in the laptop portions 3004 and 3006 are separated at adistance greater than their engagement distance, which corresponds to an“ON” state. In FIG. 30B, a user of the laptop 3002 has pushed the topportion 3004 down until it became attracted by the attractive portion ofthe contactless attachment multi-level coded regions of the two magneticstructures 2902 and 2904. The top portion 3004 will reach theequilibrium (or hover) distance and remain at that distance, which thesensor data indicates causing the laptop 3002 to enter a “SLEEP” state.The user can then either open the laptop 3002 up again or can pushthrough the repel force to cause the laptop portions 3004 and 3006 toattach as seen in FIG. 30C, whereby the sensor data would indicate thatthe two portions 3004 and 3006 are attached and cause the laptop 3002 togo to its “OFF” state. One skilled in the art will also recognize thatuse of a sensor and a control system is not a requirement for achievingthe ergonomic aspects corresponding to the three state positions (“ON”,SLEEP″, and “OFF”). As shown in FIG. 30D, the laptop 3002 may alsoinclude a device 3008 (sliding mechanism 3008) used to turn one of themagnetic structures 2902 or 2904 to decorrelate them then in which casethe magnetic structures 2902 and 2904 may be much stronger when in anattached state.

Generally, a laptop 3002 configured in accordance with the multi-levelaspects of the present invention could have the following:

-   -   At least three states: not engaged, hover and fully engaged        (closed).    -   Hall sensor near at least one of the magnetic structures 2902        and 2904 to read out the state by the level of magnetism        measured at that point.    -   The detected value is translated into the discrete states which        is interfaced to a computer/processor in digital format.    -   The operating system or an application running will interpret        these states and respond appropriately, e.g., open→run normally,        hover→screen saver or stand-by, fully shut→hibernate or        stand-by.    -   Any or all of the computer responses may be delayed from the        detection according to desired ergonomics.    -   The magnetic fields may be created by either single magnetic        substrates that contain the fields necessary to produce the        behavior, or by individual magnets that give the combined field        needed to produce the behavior.    -   Either or both the hover and attachment magnets may be located        at different radii from the lid's axis of rotation to provide        mechanical advantage and modify the range of field, strength of        field, etc as needed to create the desired behavior.

Laptops, phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs) and other similardevices could also employ the aforementioned correlated magneticstechnology in other ways including:

-   -   Shock/water proof enclosure with correlated magnetic seal for        phones, media players, etc. . . .    -   Power cord with 360 degree consistent removal force.    -   Correlated magnets inside the products to reduce excess magnetic        fields.    -   Rubber mat with correlated magnets to hold laptop down.    -   Docking station.    -   Wireless charging with concentrated flux at interface.    -   Precision alignment.    -   Notion of using correlated magnets throughout lifecycle from        manufacturing to in-store demo to end use.    -   Manufacturing processes.    -   Security cord attachment-removal of correlated magnet coded cord        sounds alarm.    -   Correlated magnetic-based switches including integrated feedback        loop.

In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, therepel-snap multi-level correlated magnetic system 1000 (for example) canbe used to produce child safety and animal proof devices that require achild or animal to be able to overcome the repel force in order toengage or disengage a locking mechanism, or other such mechanism. Theforce may be applied via pulling or pushing or in some other manner.Such a device could make it difficult for a child or an animal to turnon a device, for example, a garbage disposal.

FIGS. 31A-31K depicts various views of an exemplary child proof device3100 that might be used as an electrical switch or a mechanical latch orfor some other purpose. Generally, the device 3100 is designed toexhibit multi-level repel snap behavior when two magnetic structures1002 a and 1002 b are in a certain alignment(s) and to exhibit repelonly behavior when the structures 1002 a and 1002 b are in an alignmentother than the certain alignment(s). As such, a child or animal wouldhave to overcome a repel force to cause the device 3100 to engage theswitch or latch or otherwise perform a function upon the contact (ornear contact) of the two magnetic structures 1002 a and 1002 b. Once thetwo magnetic structures 1002 a and 1002 b are brought into contact theywould snap together and remain together until one of the magneticstructures 1002 a and 1002 b was turned by a knob 3102 so as to causethem to de-correlate thereby causing the attractive forces of theattractive layer to be overcome by the repel forces present in thedevice 3100. As shown, the device 3100 is configured such that the knob3102 will turn within a guide 3104 (e.g., guide rod 3104) to cause it toachieve its normal aligned position. The device 3100 can transition fromrepel snap to repel-only depending on whether the complementary codesare aligned or not aligned. As shown in FIG. 31K, the device 3100 ifdesired can incorporate a spacer 3106 which is attached to one of themagnetic structures 1002 a (for example). Thus, when the other magneticstructure 1002 b encounters the spacer 3106 it can close for instance anelectrical connection (e.g., activate a doorbell) and/or affect amechanical latch or other device. This requires the force to bemaintained to enable operation of a device (e.g., garbage disposal).

As can be appreciated, the repel-snap multi-level correlated magneticsystem 1000 (for example) can be used in many different child safety andanimal proof devices. By requiring a child or animal to overcome, forexample by pushing or pulling an object, a repel force before somethingengages, for example electrically or mechanically, new forms ofelectrical switches, latches, and the like can be employed where therepel force can be prescribed such that a child or animal would find itdifficult to overcome the force while an adult would not. Such devicesmight optionally employ a spacer to control the amount of attractiveforce (if any) that the devices could achieve thereby enabling them tobe removed with a force (e.g., pull force) opposite the force used toachieve contact (e.g., push force). If desired, the repel-snapmulti-level correlated magnetic system 1000 (for example) may be codedwhereby they do not de-correlate when one of the corresponding magneticstructures 1002 a and 1002 b is rotated relative to the other or it maybe coded where de-correlation will occur when alignment is changed dueto rotation (and/or translational movement). Thus, the force between twomulti-level magnetic structures 1002 a and 1002 b can vary as a functionof separation distance and also relative alignment of the two structures1002 a and 1002 b.

The following discussion is intended to compare the limitations ofconventional magnet force curves to those of coded magnetic structures.Conventional magnet pairs will either attract each other or repel eachother depending on the spatial orientation of their dipoles.Conventional magnets can have strong magnetic fields that can adverselyaffect credit cards, cell phones, pacemakers, etc. because of the linearreach of the magnetic fields. For the same reason, these magnets canalso be very dangerous to handle. Moreover, magnet designs have beenlimited by the assumption of an indirect relationship, which describesthe force as inversely proportional to the linear distance between themagnets. Because of this limitation, design engineers have long reliedon materials science and advanced manufacturing techniques to producemagnets with appropriate attract and/or repel force performancecharacteristics required for particular applications.

The force curve shown in FIG. 32 describes the repel force profile fortwo standard neodymium iron boron (NdFeB) N42-grade disk magnets 1½″diameter by ⅛″ thick. Two magnets 3200 a and 3200 b are shown with northpoles facing each other thereby producing a repel force that variesindirectly with separation distance. Correlated magnetics technologyremoves this limiting assumption by enabling the programming of magneticdevices to precisely prescribe magnetic fields and therefore magnetbehaviors. Specifically, magnet designers can now use patterns ofgrouped and/or alternating magnetic elements—or maxels—that behaveindividually like dipole magnets, but can exhibit many differentbehaviors as a whole. The shape of a force profile is controlled by anumber of design parameters, including the total number of magneticelements, polarity, amplitude, and the size, shape and location of themaxels (field emission sources). The amount of maxel polarity variationper unit area (code density) on a magnet surface affects the level ofthe peak force at contact. The code density also affects the residuallevel of force at the far-field and the rate of decay, or slope, of theforce curve. As the code density increases, so does the peak attractionforce. However, the attraction force decays more rapidly, and thefar-field force is significantly reduced. Thus, in stark contrast to theconventional magnets, the custom designed magnetic fields employingcorrelated magnetics technology can exhibit a stronger peak force with avery short ‘throw,’ rendering a much safer magnetic device.

FIG. 33 depicts multiple force curves produced by varying the codedensity of the maxels programmed into the magnet pair using instances ofa simple alternating polarity code. In this case, the material is NdFeBN42-grade ¾″ square magnets at a thickness of ⅛″ and code density isvaried from conventional magnet (code density=1) to 256 maxels on thecoded magnet surface. While code density affects the severity of theslope of the force curve, as well as peak and far-field force levels,the maxel size, shape and amplitude affect the engagement distance ofthe forces programmed into the magnet pair. Moreover, as previouslydescribed, opposing forces can be employed simultaneously (attract andrepel), providing the designer the ability to impart inflections intothe force curve. The amplitude of each maxel is adjusted by varying theinput power on the induction coil as the magnets are being‘printed/manufactured’ which in turn affects the shape of the forcecurve. The attract and repel forces can be increased or decreased andthe inflection point can be prescribed to meet specific applicationrequirements.

FIG. 34 depicts the force profile for two magnets 3400 a and 3400 bprogrammed with repel and snap behavior, whereby complementary maxelpatterns have been printed onto conventional magnets to achieve twoforce curves. This profile demonstrates a multi-level magnetism wherethe repel force increases, peaks and then transitions to an attractforce as the pair of coded magnets 3400 a and 3400 b approach eachother. This programmable force behavior empowers design engineers toprescribe precise damping and resistance behavior for products,components and subsystems, and it enables the creation of cushioningdevices with deterministic weight support characteristics. Thecorrelated magnetics multi-force devices represent an enablingtechnology for improvement to vibration damping fixtures, shockabsorbers, hospital beds, child- and animal-proof switches and latches,micro-switches and more.

FIG. 35 illustrates the effect of varying input power on the shape ofthe force profiles. The amount of input power used to produce theattractive force is 175V (line 3502) and 200V (line 3504) with the repelforce unaltered. For comparison, the force curve for conventionalmagnets is also shown (line 3506).

FIGS. 36A-36D shows several multi-level repel and snap demonstrators3602, 3604, 3606 and 3608 that highlight the functional differencesbetween conventional magnets and coded magnets, where disk magnetsadhered to the bottom surface of four solid cylinders interact in amanner similar to springs with magnets fitted at the bottom of fourcylindrical tubes. The force curves for each cylinder 3602, 3604, and3608 describe the nature of the repel force experienced as the magnetstravel vertically down the shaft.

The far-left cylinder 3602 features two conventional magnets thatexhibit a progressively-stiffer resistance as the magnets approachcontact. The other three cylinders 3604 (repel and snap 175V), 3606(repel and snap 200V) and 3608 (repel and snap w/spacer) each featuremulti-level repel and snap programmed magnet pairs that provide aprogressively stiffer resistance up to an inflection point atapproximately 6/10 of an inch from surface contact. At this point, theresistive force declines and actually transitions to an attract force atapproximately two-tenths of an inch from surface contact, where themagnet pair then snap together and bond. The difference in resistanceoffered by the higher and lower power attract-force codes can benoticeably felt. The far-right cylinder 3608 illustrates a ‘breakawaycushion’ behavior. The cylinder travel is limited by a spacer such thatthe magnet pair cannot enter the attract force region. The net effect isthat the repel force declines to near zero, yet the cylinder will returnto its starting position when released. Thus, new cushioning devices canbe designed to give way after a prescribed force is reached.

Because force curves are now programmable, designers can tailor themagnetic behavior to match application requirements and to support newmagnet applications. Magnets may now include combinations of attract andrepel forces that enable entirely new application areas. Programmingmagnets and their force curves provides a powerful new capability forproduct innovation and increased efficiencies across industry.Generally, a plurality of regions having different force curves can beconfigured to work together to produce a tailored composite force curve.The composite force curve could, for example, have a flat portion thatrepresented a constant force over some range of separation distance suchthat the devices acted similar to a very long spring. Moreover, aspreviously described, maxels can be printed onto conventional magnetsthereby putting surface fields onto them. By putting a thin correlatedmagnetic layer on top of an already magnetized substrate the bulk fieldis projected into the far field and the correlated magnetic surfaceeffects modify the force curve in the near field.

In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, themulti-level contactless attachment devices can be used to make doors anddrawers that are quiet since they can be designed such that doors,cabinet doors, and drawers will close and magnetically attach yet notmake contact. FIGS. 37A-37C depict an exemplary cabinet 3702, cabinetdoor 3704, hinges 3706 and 3708 and magnetic structures 3710 and 3712having multi-level contactless attachment coding that would cause themto close but not completely thus making them quiet closing. In thisexample, the magnetic structures 3710 and 3712 are coded for multi-levelcontactless attachment. If desired, the magnetic structures 3710 and3712 can be located in overlap regions 3714 where the cabinet door 3704overlaps the cabinet 3702. The magnetic structures 3710 and 3712 can beattached to the cabinet 3702 and cabinet door 3704 by adhesive, nails,screws etc. . . . . Plus, a spacer 3716 could be used to prevent magnetcontact if too much force is used to close the cabinet door 3704 (e.g.,slamming). If desired, an installation guide 3718 can be used wheninstalling the magnetic structures 3710 and 3712 to the cabinet 3702 andcabinet door 3704.

FIGS. 38A-38B depicts two magnets 3802 and 3804 coded to havemulti-level repel and snap behavior and having a spacer 3806 in betweenthem with an attract layer 3810 and a repel layer 3812. A force 3814 canbe applied on one side to overcome the repel force so the two magnets3802 and 3804 snap together with the spacer 3806 in between them. Then,if a force 3816 is applied to a side of one of the magnets 3802 (forexample) that causes that magnet 3802 to pivot on the spacer 3806 thenthis will cause the magnets 3802 and 3804 to repel each other (e.g.,explode apart). Thus, this arrangement provides a relatively unstabledevice that will remain together until it receives an impact of somesort causing the two magnets 3802 and 3804 to fly apart (e.g., much likean explosion). As such, various types of toys (exploding toys),triggers, and the like can be produced that employ such a device. Thesize, thickness, shape, and other aspects of the spacer 3806 can bevaried to determine the degree of instability of the device. Such adevice can also serve as a form of energy storage device whereby a lotof force can be released with very little applied force.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, an externalforce applied to at least one magnetic structure making up a multi-leveldevice may change as a result of heat, pressure, or some other externalfactor other than physical force. For example, a bimetallic stripconnected to a multi-level device may be used to produce the desiredhysteresis of a thermostat or of a first suppression system triggerdevice. Similarly, pressure might cause a multi-level device to go froma close position to an open position enabling gas to escape a vessel.

In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention, theability to vary the forces between two magnetic structures in anon-linear manner by varying their relative alignment and viamulti-level magnetism that varies as a function of separation distanceenables entirely new types of simple machines that include the sixclassical simple machines (i.e., lever, wheel and axle, pulley, inclinedplane, wedge, and screw). Generally new non-linear design dimensionsenable force characteristics to be varied for given distances andalignments. Furthermore, new types of complex machines are now possiblebased on combinations of new simple machines. FIG. 39 depicts anexemplary complex machine 3900 involving a bar 3902 having one endpivoting on a surface 3904 and a pulley 3906 on an opposite end fromwhich a weight 3908 is suspended via a rope 3910 or the like. At a pointalong the bar 3902 a force 3912 is applied by a magnetic force component3914 which is two or more magnetic structures coded to produce a desiredforce versus distance curve. By using different magnetic structureshaving different force versus distances curves (e.g., force curves)different functionalities of the complex machine 3900 can be produced.For example, if a force curve is programmed that exhibits a sinusoidalfunction with extension then the force on the weight 3908 will be linearover the range in which that curve is accurate, simulating the effect ofa very long spring.

From the foregoing, one skilled in the art will appreciate that thepresent invention includes a multilevel correlated magnetic systemcomprising: (a) a first correlated magnetic structure including a firstportion which has a plurality of coded magnetic sources and a secondportion which has one or more magnetic sources; (b) a second correlatedmagnetic structure including a first portion which has a plurality ofcomplementary coded magnetic sources and a second portion which has oneor more magnetic sources; (c) wherein the first correlated magneticstructure is aligned with the second correlated magnetic structure suchthat the first portions and the second portions are respectively locatedacross from one another; and (d) wherein the first portions each producea higher peak force than the second portions while the first portionseach have a faster field extinction rate than the second portions suchthat (1) the first portions produce a magnetic force that is cancelledby a magnetic force produced by the second portions when the first andsecond correlated magnetic structures are separated by a distance equalto a transition distance, (2) the first portions produce a strongermagnetic force than the magnetic force produced by the second portionswhen the first and second correlated magnetic structures have aseparation distance from one another that is less than the transitiondistance, and (3) the first portions have a weaker magnetic force thanthe magnetic force produced by second portions when the separationdistance between the first and second correlated magnetic structures isgreater than the transition distance.

In one example, the first correlated magnetic structure's plurality ofcoded magnetic sources include first field emission sources and thesecond correlated magnetic structure's plurality of complementary codedmagnetic sources include second field emission sources, each fieldemission sources having positions and polarities relating to a desiredspatial force function that corresponds to a relative alignment of thefirst and second correlated magnetic structures within a field domain,wherein the spatial force function being in accordance with a code,where the code corresponding to a code modulo of the first fieldemission sources and a complementary code modulo of the second fieldemission sources. The code defining a peak spatial force correspondingto a substantial alignment of the code modulo of the first fieldemission sources with the complementary code modulo of the second fieldemission sources, wherein the code also defining a plurality of off peakspatial forces corresponding to a plurality of different misalignmentsof the code modulo of the first field emission sources and thecomplementary code modulo of the second field emission sources, whereinthe plurality of off peak spatial forces having a largest off peakspatial force, where the largest off peak spatial force being less thanhalf of the peak spatial force.

FIG. 40A depicts a retractable magnet assembly 400 configured to limit amagnetic field present at a measurement location 402 when a first magnet404 is in a retracted state (see top figure). The retractable magnetassembly 400 includes a containment vessel 406 in which the first magnet404 can move from a retracted position (see top figure) to an engagementposition (see bottom figure) and vice versa. When in the retractedposition, the first magnet 404 may be attracted to an optional piece ofmetal 408 or another magnet 410 or to shielding 412. Moreover, if thepiece of metal 408 and shielding 412 are used, an appropriate balancemust be achieved since both the shielding 412 and the metal 408 wouldattract the first magnet 404. Depending on the orientation of theretractable magnet assembly 400, the first magnet 404 may move to theretracted position based on gravity when not in proximity with anothermagnet 410 or metal 408. Optionally, a bias magnetic field could beapplied to cause the first magnet 404 to move to the retracted position.The bias magnetic field can be provided an electromagnet located eitherinside or outside the containment vessel 406 (see e.g., FIG. 41D).Alternatively, a permanent magnet 414 located outside the containmentvessel 406 can be used to apply a biased magnetic field. When a secondmagnet 414 (or metal) is brought close to the front of the containmentvessel 406 the first magnet 404 inside moves to the engagement position,which may be in contact with the second magnet 414 (or metal) or may bein contact with an intermediate layer 416 or a shielding layer 412 thatmay or may not be a saturable shielding layer (e.g., permalloy) (seeFIG. 40B). As shown in FIG. 40B, the containment vessel 406 may includewithin it the intermediate layer (i.e., a layer between the containmentvessel 406 and the first magnet 404) on one or more (including all)sides to limit the magnetic field in a given direction and may includeshielding 412 one or more (including all) sides. One skilled in the artwill recognize that a non-saturable shielding layer 412 will have a moregradual transition from shielding to field transparency when broughtinto proximity of a coded magnet, whereas a saturable shielding layer412 will have a more abrupt transition from shielding to fieldtransparency. In a preferred embodiment the magnet 404 will engage athin saturable shielding layer 412 allowing additional magnetism (i.e.,beyond that required to saturate the saturable shielding layer) toengage the second magnet 414 (or metal) while the shielding 412 wouldotherwise substantially shield the environment outside the containmentvessel 406 from the magnetic field of the magnet 404 it contains. Themagnet 404 within the containment vessel 406 can be a conventionalmagnet or a coded magnet including one having a repel-snap behavior or ahover-snap behavior.

FIG. 40C depicts an exemplary method 420 for designing the retractablemagnet assembly 400 of FIGS. 40A-40B. The retractable magnet 404 inaccordance with the invention may be a conventional magnet or a codedmagnet. If the retractable magnet 404 is a coded magnet it will have aspatial function relative to another magnet 414 and also the magnet 404(by itself) will have a resultant (or composite) field strength vs.separation distance curve relative to a measurement location 402 nearthe magnet 404. Generally, the resultant field strength vs. separationdistance depends on the coding of the magnet 404 and the location of themeasurement location 402 as well as other characteristics of the magnet404 such as the grade of material, maxel size, maxel shape, maxelstrength, etc (step 422). But, once a coded magnet's resultant fieldstrength vs. separation distance curve is determined relative to ameasurement location 402, it can be used to identify a requiredseparation distance that will result in limiting the magnetic field tomeet a field criteria (e.g., maximum allowed external field strength) atthat measurement location 402 (step 424). Once that required separationdistance is determined, a retractable magnet assembly 400 can bedesigned such that the magnet 404 can retract at least the determinedrequired separation distance (step 426).

FIG. 41A depicts magnets 4100 and 4102 having multi-level repel-snap orhover-snap behavior being used to attach two objects 4104 and 4106. Thetwo objects 4104 and 4106 having coded magnets 4100 and 4102 integratedbeneath their surfaces (as indicated by the dashed lines) are shown in anon-attached orientation (top figure) and an attached orientation(bottom figure). One skilled in the art will recognize that the magnetpairs 4100 and 4102 do not have to be integrated into objects 4104 and4106 and that they can be otherwise attached to the objects 4104 and4106. Moreover, the magnetic structures 4100 and 4102 could comprisedifferent shapes, involve multiple smaller magnets arranged to producethe proper behavior, and all sorts of other variations are possible topractice the invention.

FIG. 41B depicts an exemplary disengagement/engagement tool 4108 thatcan be used to cause the repel-snap or the hover-snap magnets 4100 and4102 of FIG. 41A to separate thereby allowing separation of the twoobjects 4104 and 4106 or to cause them to snap together to attach toobjects 4104 and 4106. Generally, the repel-snap and hover-snap magnets4100 and 4102 will transition from a given state to another givenapplication of a force or application of a bias magnetic field. As such,a disengagement/engagement tool 4108 can be designed relative to thedesign of a given magnet pair 4100 and 4102 so as to apply anappropriate bias magnet field to change the state of the magnet pair4100 and 4102. The tool 4108 could involve a permanent magnet(s) 4110 aand could involve an electromagnet(s) 4110 b that could be switchableon-and-off and otherwise allow control (variable control) of polarityand field strength. Although a handle 4112 is shown configured on thebackside of the tool 4108, one skilled in the art would recognize that ahandle 4112 isn't required and that one or more handles could beconfigured to allow either end of a permanent magnet 4110 a to beapplied so as to transition magnet pairs 4100 and 4102 from either aclosed state to an open state or vice versa. Additionally, the biasfield of the tool 4108 may itself be coded such that it will functionproperly only when in a desired orientation with the magnet pair 4100and 4102. As such, the coding of the magnet pair 4100 and 4102 and thecoding of the tool 4108 must match much like a lock and key.

FIG. 41C depicts an exemplary electromagnet 4114 located at a fixedlocation in proximity to an attachment apparatus such as depicted inFIG. 41A, where the electromagnet 4114 can be used to change the stateof a repel-snap magnet pair 4100 and 4102 or a hover-snap magnet pair4100 and 4102. As shown, a control button 4116 would activate theelectromagnet 4114 by supplying electricity from a power source (e.g., abattery) (not shown) that would cause the electromagnet 4114 to producethe necessary bias field to cause the magnet pair 4100 and 4102 todisengage thereby detaching the objects 4104 and 4106 (note: thedisengagement/engagement tool 4108 in FIG. 41B may also have a controlbutton 4116 to activate the electromagnet 4100 b). Such an arrangementwould allow for quick installation of panels having no visible means foropening and then quick detachment using the tool 4108. Similarly,attaching two objects 4104 and 4106 may require the tool 4108 to causethe magnet pair 4100 and 4102 to snap after the two objects 4104 and4106 are brought together, for example, if one of the magnets 4100 ofthe magnet pair 4100 and 4102 was configured in a retractable magnetassembly. The electromagnet 4114 shown in FIG. 41C is located behind themagnet 4100 but one skilled in the art will recognize that all sorts ofconfigurations are possible to control one or more electromagnets 4114to produce one or more bias fields used to vary the state of one or moremagnet pairs 4100 and 4102 having repel-snap or hover-snap behaviors.

FIG. 41D depicts an exemplary enclosure 4130 whereby a given magnet 4132of a repel-snap magnet pair 4132 and 4134 or a hover-snap magnet pair4132 and 4134 can move to one side 4136 of the enclosure 4130 when‘snapped’ to the other magnet 4134 and can move to the other side 4138of the enclosure 4130 when ‘repelled’ away from the other magnet 4134.The enclosure 4130 is much like the retractable magnet assembly 4000 ofFIGS. 40A-40C except an electromagnet 4140 is shown at the back of thecontainment vessel 4130 in place of a magnetic strip, which is notrequired given the repel forces and/or the hover location can besufficient to keep the magnet in its refracted position. Theelectromagnet 4140 can be controlled to apply a bias field to cause themagnet 4132 to retract and to move forward to an engagement (snapped)position.

FIGS. 42A and 42B depict alternative stacked multi-level structures 4200a and 4200 b intended to produce a click on-click off behavior much likecertain ball-point pens. The behavior is similar to the repeatablehysteresis behavior described previously except it is desirable that thebottom pair of magnets and remain attached (snapped together) untilpurposely disengaged by the application of force. In FIG. 42A a middlemagnet (magnet 2) can be a conventional magnet whereby magnets 1 and 3are coded to produce repel snap behavior when interacting with magnet 2.Magnet 1 also has a spacer 4202 a Many other alternative coding methodscan also be employed that result in magnet 2 having repel snap behaviorwith both magnets 1 and 3. In FIG. 42B, magnets 2 and 3 are attachedusing an intermediate layer 4202 b such that they move together as oneobject yet otherwise independently interact with magnets 1 and 4respectively such that both magnets 1 and 2 and magnets 3 and 4 exhibitrepel snap behavior.

FIG. 42C depicts the click on-click off behavior of the stackedmulti-level structure 4200 a of FIG. 42A (the same behavior would applyto the stacked multi-level structure 4200 b of FIG. 42B). First, a force4200 is applied to magnet 1 which causes the middle magnet 2 to movedownward until the bottom pair of magnets 2 and 3 snap together (step1). The force 4200 is removed and the top magnet 1 is repelled upward toa location lower than its initial location (step 2). When a force 4202is re-applied to magnet 1 to an extent that the top magnet 1 begin toengage, the attraction between the top two magnets 1 and 2 causes thebottom two magnets 2 and 3 to disengage. As the bottom two magnets 2 and3 disengage the repel force between the bottom two magnets 2 and 3 actsas a bias field causing the top two magnets 1 and 2 to also disengagethereby returning the magnet structure 4200 a to its initial state (step3). As such, the behavior can be described as a click on-click offbehavior. One skilled in the art will recognize that various techniquescan be applied to include additional bias fields, use of a spring, usingof travel limiting devices, use of different sized magnets whereoverlapping regions and tabs are used to disrupt magnets such that theydisengage, etc.

The pulsed magnetic field generation systems described in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 12/476,952, filed Jun. 2, 2009, titled “A fieldemission system and method”, which is incorporated herein by reference,produces magnetic sources called maxels. The magnetization of the maxelsdepends on many factors including the grade of magnetizable material,the sintering of the material, the size and other characteristics of themagnetizing inductor (or print head), the thickness of the material, thecurrent used to magnetize the maxel, and so on. To achieve a maxelhaving a desired diameter, one may have to lower the current used sinceonce the material being magnetized becomes saturated at the maxellocation, additional magnetization will cause the maxel to expand orbleed outward causing it to have a larger diameter. In accordance withthe invention, additional magnetizable material can be placed in contactwith the material being magnetized to enable a high current to beapplied so that any excess magnetization will transition into theadditional magnetizable material. Additionally, various alternativeapproaches exist for affecting the magnetization of a maxel includinghaving a template beneath the material having predefined magnetizationcharacteristics, having external magnetic field sources intended to bias(or steer) the magnetization of a maxel, having various combinations ofabruptly saturable shielding materials (e.g., Permalloy) and/or slowlysaturating shielding materials like iron or steel.

It is desirable to have cylindrically shaped magnetizable material thatcould be magnetized where the domain alignment would be radiallysymmetric from the center of the cylinder much like spokes on a wagonwheel. Such material could then be fully magnetized using the pulsedmagnetic field generation system (i.e., the magnetizer) of the inventionto produce a pattern of maxels around the outside of the cylinderwithout requiring variation of the current used to produce each maxel.However, if cylindrically shaped magnetizable material is fabricated tohave diametric domain alignment then one can take into account the angleof the domain alignment of the material to the direction ofmagnetization by the magnetizer print head and vary the current of themaxels to normalize maxel field strengths, for example, half the currentmight be applied along the direction (or axis) of domain alignment thanis applied ninety degrees off the axis of domain alignment.

One application of correlated magnets is an anti-kick blade releasemechanism for a saw whereby when a blade bites into an object, e.g.,wood, such that it would become locked and would otherwise kick theblade up and/or the object out, the blade would disengage. The saw couldalso be made to automatically turn off upon this occurrence.

Another application of correlated magnets is with flying model aircraftwhich would allow portions such as wings to be easily attached to enableflying but easily detached for storage and transport.

Below are some additional ideas for devices incorporating correlatedmagnetics technology.

-   -   Stackable forks, spoons, knives, plates, and bowls:        -   Allows utensils to stack better in drawers        -   Less wear and tear when stacked        -   Less noise when putting utensils away or getting them out        -   Provides spacing so that cleaning is more easily performed            by dishwashers    -   Showers and shower storage devices—keeps storage in place and        can be removed for easy cleanup of shower. The problem with        traditional shower storage is that it's kept in place via        suction and/or friction, both of which are unreliable methods of        keeping a shower implement in place. Additionally, once you get        the implement to “stick”, the last thing you want to do is        remove that item for cleaning. If shower liner/insert        manufacturers and tile manufacturers can embed coded magnets        into their products, then all sorts of accessories can be made        to mount to the side of shower or any bathroom or kitchen wall        surface that's constructed of such material. Examples of        accessories include soap dishes, shampoo bottle shelves, towel        racks, waterproof radios, mirrors, etc.    -   Construction/farm equipment and accessories—same as above but        for heavy equipment and farm implements—in farm implements and        heavy machinery, the need exists for cup holders, tool holders,        and various other accessories that could be held if the various        pieces of metal on this machinery were programmed to accept CM        based accessories.    -   Embedded into little league baseball home plates throughout the        country to support the installation of tees for t-ball. In        today's t-ball world, coaches must supply their own tee because        putting a hole in the middle of the traditional home plate is        unsightly and potentially unsafe. By fitting the traditional        home plate with a CM technology and a simple drawn circle, the        t-ball tee can be attached to the same home plate that coach-        and player-pitch little league can use. The magnetic force will        be strong enough to support the ball, but will break away (by        design) so that they kids can get used to a “real” home plate        (rather than dodging the tee when they approach home from third        base. Additionally, the tee can easily (and more cheaply) be        replaced since it is the piece that receives the most damage        from the swings of inexperienced players.    -   Sealing coffins, vaults, and crypts    -   Farm equipment power take off (PTO) quick connect. Includes        native operation as well as adapters for existing equipment.    -   Screws with correlated magnetic heads that are matched to        screwdriver bits so that the bit can be “dipped” into a box of        these screws for hands free placement and alignment of screw to        screwdriver. Same as above with nails/hammers and other        fasteners/tools.    -   Car roof racks (and other external automotive accessories).    -   License plates—probably on for vanity plates initially    -   Expandable dumbbell set    -   Built-in coded magnets in standard kitchen appliances to allow a        whole host of accessories to be developed—similar to the car        rack concept, towel racks and other accessories could be        mounted.    -   Adapter hardware for standard fastener sizes—enables coded        magnet products to be mounted where traditional objects would        normally be screwed or bolted.    -   Street and road signs that “break away”—For safety purposes, the        majority of highway road signs are designed to break off or        shear when hit with extreme force (such as a motor vehicle        accident. These are typically installed by connecting a piece of        the pole that's been buried in concrete with the top section of        a pole (with sign) using 4 to 8 small bolts. These bolts (and        the associated labor to install them) can be replaced by CM        technology.    -   Patient levitation beds based on magnetic repulsion to        reduce/eliminate bedsores during hospital stays. Magnits would        be built into a patient carrier which would then be supported        and held in place by corresponding magnets on the bed.    -   Patient gurney which uses correlated magnets to lock it into        place inside the ambulance. Replaces conventional locks which        are subject to spring wear, dirt, corrosion, etc.    -   Patient restraining device using correlated magnets. Could use        keyed magnets on patient clothing and corresponding magnets on a        chair, etc.    -   Engine or motor mounts which use multi-level contactless        attachment devices to reduce or eliminate vibration.    -   Easily removable seat pads.    -   Boot/shoe fasteners to eliminate strings or Velcro.    -   Self-aligning hitch for trailers.    -   Elevator door lock to replace conventional mechanical locks.    -   Keyed magnet spare tire mount.    -   Interchangeable shoe soles (sports shoes, personal wear, etc.)    -   Light bulb bases to replace screw mounts.    -   Oven rotisserie using slow-motor technology.    -   Kitchen microwave rotating platform using slow-motor technology.    -   No-contact clutch plate, eliminating wearable, friction plates.    -   Longer-lasting exercise bike using variable opposing magnets        (eliminating friction-based components).    -   Purse clasp.    -   Keyed gate latch.    -   Using linear magnets to stop runaway elevators or other        mechanical devices.    -   After-market coaxial cable, with end caps that screw on to the        tv and wall plate and stay, and a cable that magnetically        attaches to those end caps.    -   Industrial gas cylinder caps that are magnetic instead of the        current threaded caps that are exceedingly difficult to use.        Magnetic caps would be coded such that all O₂ bottle caps work        on all O₂ bottles, all CO₂ caps work on CO₂ bottles, etc.        Biomedical Applications:    -   Use of contactless attachment capability for the interface        between mechanical and a biological elements and for the        interface between two biological elements. The reason is that if        there is too much pressure placed on biological tissue like skin        it impedes the capillaries feeding the tissue and will cause it        to die within an hour. This phenomenon, ischemic pressure        necrosis, makes interfacing mechanical and biological        elements—and often two biological elements that you don't want        to permanently join via stitches or other methods, very        difficult. The contactless attachment might be a powerful tool        to address this problem. Potential applications identified for        mechanical to biological attachment included attaching        prosthetics where one of the magnets is implanted under the        skin, attaching external miniature pumps, and as ways to hold        dental implants, something to avoid grinding in TMJ, and as a        way to hold dentures in place and aligned. For biological to        biological attachment, the ideas included magnets implanted in        the soft palate and the bone above for sleep apnea, and use to        address urinary incontinence. CM might be the basis of a valve        at the top of the stomach that is able to be overcome with        swallowing to address acid reflux.    -   Magnetically controlled transmoral necrosis for creating        gastrojejunostomy for people with morbid obesity. The idea is        that you could swallow one magnet and wait until it gets to the        right part of the intestine and then you would swallow another.        Once the second got into the stomach, it would align and connect        to the first causing necrosis of all the tissue in between and        creating a bypass between the stomach and the intestine. It        would be similar to the surgery people get today but wouldn't        require surgery.    -   Implanting a CM with a contactless attachment in someone's        sinuses who have chronic sinus issues. You could then hold        another CM up to your cheek to get the sinus to distend and help        fluid inside to flow.    -   Use CMs as transducers for hearing aids.    -   CM-based rehab equipment.    -   CMs that could start out magnetic but lose that ability over        time and the opposite, where they start out nonmagnetic but        become magnetic over time. One could swallow magnets to do a job        and at some point they would release and exit the body. Or, they        could be in the body until they got to a certain place, at which        they would attach. Could add a battery and small electromagnet        bias magnet to a CM to be able to control it. Could put a        dissolving material around the magnets that might degrade over        time so that it let the magnet do something different once the        material was gone.    -   prosthetic attachment—snap on, turn to remove    -   joint replacement (knee, spinal discs, etc)—with contactless        attachment so no wear    -   joint positioning (spinal discs, etc)—use alignment to make sure        stay in place    -   breakaway pad—use breakaway spring capability to eliminate        hotspots and thus bedsores    -   gene sorting—more advanced gene sorting than possible with        conventional magnets    -   Rehab equipment—magnet controlled forces for rehab equipment    -   placement of feeding tube—guide a nasal feeding tube from        outside body through stomach and into intestine    -   drug targeting—tag drugs (or stem cells, etc) with magnetic        materials and direct them to a specific place in the body    -   Flow control devices—precision dispensing using controlled valve    -   Control contamination—gears, separators, etc. that don't touch        to avoid cross contamination    -   Seal-less valves    -   Pumps (heart, etc)—potential to design novel pumps with new        attributes

Although multiple embodiments of the present invention have beenillustrated in the accompanying Drawings and described in the foregoingDetailed Description, it should be understood that the present inventionis not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but is capable of numerousrearrangements, modifications and substitutions without departing fromthe invention as set forth and defined by the following claims. Itshould also be noted that the reference to the “present invention” or“invention” used herein relates to exemplary embodiments and notnecessarily to every embodiment that is encompassed by the appendedclaims.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A multi-level magnetic system, comprising:a first magnetic structure; a second magnetic structure, said first andsecond magnetic structures producing a net force that transitions froman attractive force to a repel force when a separation distance betweensaid first and second magnetic structures equals a first separationdistance, said net force being an attractive force when said separationdistance is less than said first separation distance, said net forcebeing a repel force when said separation distance is greater than saidfirst separation distance; and at least one movement constrainingstructure to maintain at least a second separation distance between saidfirst and second magnetic structures, said second separation distancebeing greater than or equal to said first separation distance and lessthan a third separation distance between said first and second magneticstructures at which said first and second magnetic structures produce apeak repel force.
 2. The multi-level magnetic system of claim 1, whereinat least one of said first magnetic structure or said second magneticstructure comprises a plurality of magnetic sources.
 3. The multi-levelmagnetic system of claim 2, wherein said plurality of magnetic sourcesincludes a first magnetic source having a first polarity and a secondmagnetic source having a second polarity opposite said first polarity.4. The multi-level magnetic system of claim 1, wherein one of said firstmagnetic structure or said second magnetic structure is a conventionalmagnet.
 5. The multi-level magnetic system of claim 1, wherein saidfirst and second magnetic structures each include a first portion wherethe first portions produce an attractive force curve and wherein saidfirst and second magnetic structures each include a second portion wherethe second portions produce a repel force curve, said attractive forcecurve and said repel force curve producing a composite force curve. 6.The multi-level magnetic system of claim 1, wherein: the at least onemovement constraining structure comprises a spacer.
 7. The multi-levelmagnetic system of claim 1, wherein: the at least one movementconstraining structure constrains movement of at least one of said firstmagnetic structure or said second magnetic structure.
 8. The multi-levelmagnetic system of claim 1, wherein said at least one movementconstraining structure is configured to constrain rotational movement.9. The multi-level magnetic system of claim 1, wherein said at least onemovement constraining structure is configured to constrain translationalmovement.
 10. The multi-level magnetic system of claim 1, wherein saidmulti-level magnetic system is configured to allow movement of at leastone of said first magnetic structure or said second magnetic structurethat varies a composite force curve associated with the first and secondmagnetic structures.
 11. The multi-level magnetic system of claim 1,wherein said second magnetic structure is configured to move from afirst position to a second position when an external force is applied tosaid second magnetic structure.
 12. The multi-level magnetic system ofclaim 11, further comprising: a circuit; a first contact attached tosaid circuit; and a second contact attached to said second magneticstructure and attached to said circuit, said second contact beingmovable relative to said first contact to open and close said circuit,said first position corresponding to an open state of said circuit wheresaid first and second contacts are open, said second positioncorresponding to a closed state of said circuit where said first andsecond contacts are closed.
 13. The multi-level magnetic system of claim12, wherein said circuit is an electrical circuit.
 14. The multi-levelmagnetic system of claim 11, wherein said second separation distanceequals said first separation distance.
 15. The multi-level magneticsystem of claim 11, wherein said second magnetic structure moves fromsaid second position to said first position as said external force isreduced.
 16. The multi-level magnetic system of claim 15, wherein assaid external force is reduced the second magnetic structure remains atsaid second position until the external force becomes less than said netforce at which the second magnetic structure begins to accelerate tosaid first position.
 17. The multi-level magnetic system of claim 11,wherein said external force required to move said second magneticstructure from said first position to said second position increasesuntil said separation distance becomes less than said third separationdistance at which said second magnetic structure begins to accelerate tosaid second position.
 18. The multi-level magnetic system of claim 1,wherein said multi-level magnetic system is a cushioning device.
 19. Themulti-level magnetic system of claim 18, wherein said cushioning deviceis integrated with at least one of a bed, a chair seat, a chair back, ashock absorber, a vehicle bumper, a protective shielding, a knee pad, anelbow pad, or a protective gear.
 20. A multi-level magnetic system,comprising: a first magnetic structure; a second magnetic structure,said first and second magnetic structures producing a net force thattransitions from an attractive force to a repel force as a separationdistance between said first and second magnetic structures increases,said net force transitioning from an attractive force to said repelforce when said separation distance equals a first separation distance;and at least one movement constraining structure to maintain at least asecond separation distance between said first and second magneticstructures, said second separation distance being greater than or equalto said first separation distance and less than a third separationdistance between said first and second magnetic structures at which saidfirst and second magnetic structures produce a peak repel force.